Khamzat Chimaev is set to make his long-awaited return to the United States for a title fight at UFC 319 in Chicago after nearly three years of visa challenges. His previous two fights were held in Abu Dhabi due to restrictions stemming from his connections to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, who faced U.S. sanctions in 2020.
As the undefeated fighter prepares to take on Dricus du Plessis in the main event on August 16, Chimaev expressed relief over finally being able to compete in the U.S., speculating that changes in administration may have played a role. “This wasn’t my bad. This wasn’t my fault,” Chimaev remarked during an open workout interview with MMA Fighting, referring to his visa issues. He attributed the resolution of his travel restrictions to the changes brought about by President Donald Trump’s presidency, suggesting that his previous inability to fight in the U.S. was tied to political factors.
UFC CEO Dana White’s close relationship with Trump is well-known, as he has supported the former president since his initial campaign and has partnered with him for various UFC events. Trump has also expressed intentions to host a UFC card at the White House in 2026, coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary.
Chimaev, however, is skeptical about being invited to fight at the White House, joking about potential deportation due to his past affiliations. He emphasized the importance of separating sports from politics, stating, “I’m just doing this for my family — fighting, training.” His comments highlight a desire among athletes to keep their focus on competition rather than political controversies.
Chimaev’s return to the U.S. represents a significant moment in his career as he aims for the middleweight title. Despite the challenges he faced, including navigating the complexities of international relations, his resilience and focus on his athletic goals remain inspiring. This fight could serve as a testament to overcoming obstacles, bringing fans hope not only for the outcome of the match but also for the continued convergence of sports and positive change.