Chimaev Plans Spring 2026 UFC Return After Surgery

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev announced plans for a return to the octagon in the spring of 2026, following a minor foot surgery and observance of Ramadan, delaying his first title defense by several months.

Chimaev captured the 185-pound belt in August at UFC 319 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Dricus du Plessis. The undefeated fighter, holding a 15-0 professional record with all nine UFC bouts ending in wins, controlled the bout with 12 takedowns and more than 21 minutes of cage time, ending du Plessis's reign after just two defenses. The performance solidified Chimaev's status as a top pound-for-pound contender, building on his earlier finishes, including a first-round submission of former champion Robert Whittaker that required dental work for his opponent.

Speaking from Doha, Qatar, where he is cornering lightweight Arman Tsarukyan in a main event against Dan Hooker at UFC Fight Night 265, Chimaev detailed his recovery timeline to Adam Zubayraev. "My return, after Ramadan," Chimaev said. "Right now I have a small operation in my foot. I'll step away from training for a couple of weeks, heal my wound. We'll prepare after Ramadan, and whoever they...