“Why Can’t I” – Khamzat Chimaev Inspired by Millionaire UFC Legend Conor McGregor in His Initial Days

It appears Khamzat Chimaev has been inspired by Conor McGregor initially in his career. Chimaev (10-0-0) is undefeated in the welterweight division. The Swedish fighter is a three-time national wrestling champion. He is also aiming to create history by becoming the first three-weight world champion.

In an interview with ESPN MMA, ‘The Borz’ said,

“Yeah, I was watching him in Fabrique. I was watching his fight. I was working, one fight (with) Aldo. I was sitting in night was working in the night from Fabrique. Take the rest, 15 minutes, watch his fight. I was looking at that like if the guys make so many money like millions and this stuff, why can’t I? I have everything. I’m fighter. I’m warrior like I have something inside and I feel that when I was born, all the time I feel like something special inside me, and how to just take out it somewhere. Find some way and need to take out this and show to the people”.

It’s startling to know McGregor inspired him to take up MMA while he was inactive in sambo and wrestling and was supporting his family.

Read more: Conor McGregor vs Joe Rogan Net Worth Comparison: Is Conor McGregor Richer Than Joe Rogan?

Chimaev is on a speedy rise in the UFC. At UFC 267, Chimaev choked out Li Jingliang and secured his fourth straight finish.

‘The Borz’, has his next match lined up with Gilbert burns at UFC 273.

Khamzat Chimaev aiming at the welterweight title

Chimaev is on a rapid rise in the welterweight, with two knockouts and two submissions in four UFC fights.

He had previously stated his desire to create history by being the first three-weight world champion. The Swedish fighter even took on UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya, saying, “Adesanya easy money for me, 0 wrestling,“

Gilbert burns ranked second in the welterweight division. He has won seven of his last eight bouts, whereas ‘Durinho’ lost to title champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 258 via TKO at 34 seconds in the third round.

Borz vs Chimaev has risen greater expectations in the welterweight division. Eventually, the winner can rise to challenge the title champion.’The Borz’ previously called out ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ for a title match.

It’s evident that Chimaev is looking forward to creating history, not only in his division.

Watch this story: Most Memorable UFC Finishes In March 2022

Is the Swedish fighter overconfident, or will he live up to his dreams?