UFC rising star Khamzat Chimaev has revealed he declined an invitation to appear on Mike Tyson’s popular “Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson” podcast, citing concerns about the boxing legend’s controversial past.
The podcast, which has featured prominent figures like UFC President Dana White, commentator Joe Rogan, and former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, has become a notable platform for sports personalities to share their stories.
Speaking on The Hustle MMA podcast, Chimaev explained his decision: “Ali said Mike Tyson also wants something, but I didn’t go. I didn’t have much desire to do that.”
The 30-year-old expressed his admiration for Tyson’s athletic achievements while explaining his reservations: “As a fighter, an athlete, I really like him. But I don’t like what all happened with him – The violence, the pills, the marijuana, then Muslims, it’s strange. But I still respect him – Both as a fighter and as a person.”
Chimaev, who maintains an impressive 8-0 record in the UFC, showed empathy while discussing Tyson’s past struggles: “He went through a lot of things and because of this, he broke down, did a lot of bad things. And no one knows what will happen to me. It can happen to anyone. A good, normal person, but something happens and you end up in a mental hospital. I don’t judge anyone, but I just didn’t want to go.”
The undefeated fighter has built an impressive resume in the UFC, securing victories over notable opponents including Gilbert Burns, Kevin Holland, and Kamaru Usman. His recent first-round victory against Robert Whittaker has potentially positioned him for a title opportunity against Dricus Du Plessis.
Tyson, who recently returned to the boxing ring against Jake Paul, continues to host his podcast, which remains a popular destination for combat sports personalities despite Chimaev’s declination.
