UFC President Dana White spoke out to the media at a scrum ahead of UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs Sakai. The event, set for September 5, adds onto the list of events that have taken place in Vegas. The company President touched on a few aspects of the aforementioned event and primarily answered a question atop the minds of fans.
The sensation that was birthed out of Fight Island, Khamzat Chimaev, is set to make his return to action. Chiefly, Dana White explained that “Borz” intends to stay true to his word of being active in the division. What’s more, he has called his shot at fighting everyone within sight at the Welterweight and Middleweight divisions.
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Dana White on Khamzat Chimaev
White has been hot on the Russian fighter, who competes out of Sweden, ever since he captured fan attention. The UFC President has been on record to appreciate fighters who are willing to step up and maintain consistency.
“He [Khamzat] gets here Monday, I think he gets here Sunday or Monday. He’ll be here this weekend. He’ll fight here and he’ll fight in Fight Island. This guy wants to..I love that mentality.”
Moreover, White revealed a future opponent in consideration for the 8-0 prospect who has taken the sport by storm. Chiefly, a point of discussion after his wins on Yas Fight Island related to whether he would receive a step up in competition. It seems as though Dana and the UFC brass are keen to test the water with Chimaev.
“We’re working on a fight for him here. It’s still being worked, but we’re talking about him and Demian Maia on Fight Island.”
The 26-year-old dominant force inside the cage made a lightning quick turnaround when he fought in the span of 10 days. Additionally, he accrued two highlight reel finishes over prospects in the organizations. Not to mention, he managed to cycle through the weight class effortlessly while still being able to perform.
Khamzat Chimaev has quickly become a standout prospect in the company and his octagon appearances have warranted attention. The MMA world will keep a watchful eye on him as he is set to face an elevation in competition. The manner in which he deals with his upcoming opponents will set the trend for his trajectory.
Watch: UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs Sakai/ UFC on ESPN+ 34 pre-fight interview
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