The rising middleweight prospect from Chechnya will no longer be representing Sweden in his upcoming fight in UFC 294. Khamzat Chimaev (12-0) who is known for his vicious takedown abilities has been fighting out of Stockholm, Sweden throughout his career in the UFC.
“Borz” as his nickname goes by first trained and lived in the Allstars gym in Sweden, ever since he got there in 2013. Khamzat Chimaev has gained quite a name for himself after his antics of threatening his opponents. The Chechen-origin fighter left his native place along with his mother to join his older brother in Sweden.
As per reports, he had won bronze at the Russian National Championship prior to leaving his land of birth. It was in Sweden that his career started to take off after he became national champion. However, in a recent revelation, his manager Majdi Shammas told Swedish media that “Borz” will be representing the United Arab Emirates and had emigrated to the Arab nation before UFC 294.
Confirmed: Khamzat Chimaev will no longer be representing Sweden in the UFC, per his manager Majdi Shammas to @SVTSport
Just like that Sweden their chance to having their first UFC Champion in a nearby future. Khamzat will be representing UAE at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi, UAE pic.twitter.com/jmJFWpecAO
— Matias Andres – Fight Life 🇸🇪 🇨🇱 🇰🇭 🇺🇸 (@MatiasAndresMMA) September 23, 2023
Although the exact reason for choosing the UAE is unknown, it could have come after multiple incidents of Quran burnings in Sweden. Another speculation could be the tax benefits that the UAE offers to its citizens.
With the upcoming fight just hours away, Chimaev has made Dubai his home and has set up his training camp in Abu Dhabi. But he has stated that he will continue to treat Sweden like his home expressing his love for the country and the fans. However, residents of both countries can have dual citizenship, so it is unsure if Chimaev has forfeited his Swedish citizenship.
What does this mean for Khamzat Chimaev?
For Khamzat, this would be a big move because there would be no taxation on his earnings from his fights. Khamzat has always been outspoken regarding his money, coming from a poor background, “Borz” was inspired to fight after watching the McGregor vs. Aldo fight. The fighter has been working hard just to get into the UFC, and even after getting in he did not let the fire within die.
Borz is officially BACK tomorrow at #UFC294! 🐺@KChimaev weighs in at 185.5lbs for our co-main event! pic.twitter.com/RaS3AwYZTK
— UFC (@ufc) October 20, 2023
Chimaev has always wanted to get rich and saw fighting as the only way there. Hence, moving to the UAE will help him in achieving his goal. This also means that Chimaev will have freedom with his training and lifestyle.
However, moving to UAE could come with its own set of consequences. As long as Chimaev is optimistic about his decision, fans will reflect similar emotions towards his endeavors.