Chimaev's Championship Reign Faces Another Lengthy Delay
UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has delivered disappointing news to fight fans, confirming he won't return to the Octagon until at least April 2026. The undefeated fighter revealed he requires foot surgery that will keep him from training for several weeks, pushing his next title defence well into next year.
Recovery Timeline and Religious Observance
Speaking to Adam Zubayraev ahead of UFC Qatar, Chimaev outlined his plans for recovery and preparation. "I have a small operation on my foot," the 31-year-old explained. "I'll step away from training for a couple of weeks, heal my wound. So, we'll prepare after Ramadan. Whoever they give me, I'll face."
With Ramadan beginning on 17 February 2026 and concluding on 18 March, this religious observance period means the champion won't resume full training until spring. This timeline makes an appearance before April 2026 highly unlikely, extending what has become a pattern of lengthy absences between fights for one of MMA's most feared competitors.
A History of Inactivity Despite Dominance
Chimaev's victory over Dricus Du Plessis to claim the middleweight championship in August represented another dominant performance from the Russian-born fighter. However, it continued a trend of infrequent Octagon appearances that has frustrated fans eager to see more of his exceptional talent.
Before the Du Plessis bout, Chimaev's previous three contests occurred in:
- October 2024
- October 2023
- September 2022
This stands in stark contrast to his explosive UFC debut year in 2020, when he secured three stoppage victories between July and September, immediately establishing himself as a fighter to watch.
What's Next for the Middleweight Division?
With the champion sidelined until 2026, the UFC faces decisions about the interim title picture. Nassourdine Imavov, riding a five-fight winning streak, appears the most likely candidate to challenge for the belt whenever Chimaev makes his return.
The champion remained involved in the fight world during UFC Qatar, supporting teammate Arman Tsarukyan who dominated Dan Hooker in Saturday's main event. Tsarukyan's victory solidified his position as the number one contender in the lightweight division, awaiting news about who will challenge champion Ilia Topuria first.
Topuria himself was present at the event, coaching his brother Aleksandre to victory, alongside another potential challenger, Paddy Pimblett. While others prepare for their next bouts, Chimaev's fans must wait patiently for their champion's return to action in 2026.
