Khamzat Chimaev‘s UFC career has met another rough patch, but this time it’s more than simply his uncertain fight future. Dana White has formally removed Guram Kutateladze, one of Chimaev’s closest pals, from the UFC roster, surprising many in the MMA community. The timing couldn’t be worse for ‘Borz,’ who was already facing the risk of missing out on a high-stakes fight against Dricus du Plessis at International Fight Week owing to the South African’s rumored injury. As his friend leaves the company, Chimaev’s circle within the UFC grows even smaller.

Kutateladze’s release followed a dismal performance at UFC London in March. Despite having a dream team in his camp, including Khamzat Chimaev, Ilia Topuria, and Aleksandre Topuria, the Georgian lightweight struggled to impress. Kaue Fernandes, his opponent, brutalized him with devastating leg kicks from the start and never let up. Even Chimaev’s guidance between rounds was insufficient to turn things around. Kutateladze was bloodied, downed many times, and eventually outclassed throughout three rounds, resulting in a unanimous 30-27 decision loss.

For Khamzat Chimaev, this is more than simply a friend being let go from the same company; it’s a deeper indication of how rapidly the tide can flip in the UFC. ‘Borz,’ who has long been seen as a rising talent and future champion, is currently surrounded by chaos. First, his own fights have been delayed and cancelled, and now his training partner and valued teammate has been let go. Head honcho Dana White’s decision is most likely based on Kutateladze’s 2-3 UFC record and inconsistency inside the Octagon, but for Chimaev, it’s a personal blow that could influence his camp morale.

This move also adds to Dana White’s more cutthroat roster management approach. While Khamzat Chimaev’s spot in the UFC is still assured, the message is clear: underperformance, regardless of relationships or potential, will not be accepted. With Guram Kutateladze gone and no announcements for International Fight Week made yet, Chimaev’s immediate status in the promotion is unknown. However, it seems like the UFC boss has confirmed the fight to be in the works during the UFC Kansas City post-event press conference, although there is a change in the timeline.

Dana White finally hints at Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus Du Plessis

Following UFC Kansas City, Dana White provided important news regarding Chimaev’s future. While the bout with Dricus du Plessis will not take place during International Fight Week, as many had hoped, the promotion’s head honcho has stated that the fight is officially happening. It’s not often that White leaves the door open for matchmaking, and his clear affirmation—even if he just promised “this year”—was enough to redirect the attention back to Chimaev’s title dreams.

Khamzat Chimaev’s domination in the Octagon has been evident. ‘Borz’ has a perfect 14-0 record, including victories against legends such as Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker, and has smashed through the division with a savagery that makes champions appear mortal. Now, facing Dricus du Plessis, a man who demolished Israel Adesanya and twice turned back Sean Strickland, Chimaev is set to enter a fight that will define his legacy. While Du Plessis brings devastating punching and an iron will, early odds online indicate that Khamzat Chimaev’s relentless wrestling and finishing skills give him the advantage.

Meanwhile, as fans impatiently await the official date, the UFC landscape remains in limbo. Negotiations for heavyweight star Tom Aspinall’s next fight against Jon Jones remain frustratingly unresolved, focusing all attention on the middleweight category for the next blockbuster. Du Plessis teasing an announcement with a cryptic “It’s time!” post on social media only fuels the fire. For Khamzat Chimaev, it’s the ideal storm: a chance to silence critics, meet sky-high expectations, and finally wear gold around his waist. What do you think? Will we get to see the two fight anytime soon? Let us know in the comments.