UFC welterweight star Khamzat Chimaev finds it unfair that Russian athletes have to be penalized or banned for something that has nothing to do with them. The Chechen born mixed martial artist is also against politics intervening with sports.
Since Russia’s president Vladimir Putin launched an attack on Ukraine earlier this year, several Russian athletes have been banned or prohibited from competing in several sports branches. This ban has become controversial around the world.
UFC and several MMA promotions are among the few international sports organizations not letting politics interfere. Russian MMA fighters are still allowed to compete in the UFC, including the Russian born, Sweden bred Khamzat Chimaev.
Though he is now a Swedish citizen, Chimaev is still proud of his motherland. On his Instagram, he shared his intense training prior to a bout against Gilbert Burns in April. He wrote an emotional note on patriotism for his fellow Russian athletes out there.
“We are athletes, each of us is a patriot of our Motherland, lately everyone has interfered with sports with politics, we stand for the country where we live, I am proud of my Motherland and I know that my Motherland is proud of me and supports me.” Chimaev wrote in the caption, translated to English.
Recently, the 28-year-old also wished a good luck for fellow countrymen Muhammad Mokaev. The flyweight prospect will be facing Charles Johnson for his second UFC outing, having previously submitted Cody Durden in March.
“[Muhammad Mokaev] All those who are worthy of your Motherland are proud of you my brother, only victory InshaAllah.” Chimaev wrote in the caption.
Khamzat Chimaev took on welterweight top contender Gilbert Burns at UFC 273. Burns was Chimaev’s first top 5 contender and he suffered heavy blows for the first time in the UFC. In his 4 previous fights, ‘Borz’ defeated his opponents easily without suffering many significant strikes. With this victory, Chimaev remained undefeated with a total score of 11-0.
He was previously set to face the welterweight gatekeeper Colby Covington. However, the UFC just confirmed that he will clash with unranked Nate Diaz.
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