Being a father is not easy, whether you’re a common man or a world-class MMA fighter. Take the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, for example; with a record of 13-0, he has been a constant nightmare for his opponents since his debut in the promotion back in 2020. Since then, he has been unstoppable, putting everyone to sleep. But what if we told you that the ‘Chechen wolf’ also has a nightmare of his own? Yes! And this fear makes him as vulnerable as a man can be as it involves the fear of what could happen to his child.

Recently, news broke on the internet that ‘Borz’s’ son is facing a serious health challenge. As the saying goes, “There’s no opponent scarier than a father fighting for his kid.” We explored the situation further to provide you with the details of what is going on with Khamzat Chimaev’s son.

Everything we know about Khamzat Chimaev’s son and his illness

The sports world was recently left shocked by the tragic news of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou’s 15-month-old child passing away due to a brain malformation, reportedly caused by medical negligence. This heartbreaking event resonated throughout the MMA community, and now similar concerns surround Khamzat Chimaev, whose young child is also facing serious health challenges. Speaking to ESPN MMA, ‘Borz’ revealed that his one-and-a-half-year-old son is battling a rare kidney condition that requires multiple surgeries. The ongoing medical procedures have taken a significant toll on the Chechen prospect, as he opened up about the emotional impact on him.

Khamzat Chimaev shared his struggle, stating, “He has one kidney, some problem… The operation, surgery… it’s hard when somebody from your family…” He emphasized how difficult it has been to stay focused on training and his upcoming fights while his son endures such rigorous medical treatments. ‘Borz’ further explained that his son’s condition is rare in children, though there remains a positive outlook. He added, “My son has had one surgery and has a second one, but everything’s good…”

This experience has revealed a new side of Khamzat Chimaev that many fans did not expect. In the pre-fight press conference, he chose words of respect over his usual trash talk, showing a more compassionate side as fatherhood seems to have changed him in unexpected ways. Let’s dive into how becoming a father has shaped the middleweight star’s outlook and approach to life.

Fatherhood has changed him, claims Khamzat Chimaev

Khamzat Chimaev is now all set to return to action this weekend, ending his hiatus from the Octagon. However, fans might not see the same fierce ‘Borz’ chanting, “I will smash everybody,” as he charges toward the cage. Now a father, ‘Borz’ has shown a more sincere side, evident in his calm demeanor at yesterday’s pre-fight press conference, where he appeared more like ‘Professor Chimaev.‘ It seems he’s focused on setting an example for his son, wanting to be a role model as his child grows up.

Speaking on The Eye Am podcast, Khamzat Chimaev opened up about how becoming a father has changed him. He shared, “I want to be a good father. Many things in my life changed after I got the kid. I think about things ten times before I do them. Before, I was reckless and didn’t think about the consequences of my actions. Now, before I do anything, I think about how my son will see me as he grows up. What will he think of me? What kind of man is his father?”

Now all eyes are on UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, where Khamzat Chimaev will not only enter the Octagon to enhance his ranking but also to fight for his son against Robert Whittaker. Who will you be rooting for, ‘Borz’ or Whittaker? Drop your opinion below.