UFC CEO Dana White is keeping the hype alive for Khamzat Chimaev, whose meteoric rise in the MMA world continues to turn heads.
At UFC 308, the undefeated star delivered a stunning performance, submitting former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker in the first round and breaking the Australian’s teeth in the process.
Following this dominant victory, many believe Chimaev is now on a collision course with current middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. While White previously hinted that Sean Strickland was next in line for a title shot, Chimaev’s overwhelming display of skill has sparked speculation about a shift in plans.
During an appearance on The Jim Rome Show, White praised Chimaev’s performance and hinted at big plans for the fighter.
“He looked incredible. His manager was telling me before the fight that mentally, physically, and emotionally, he’s the best he’s ever been. He said, ‘I’m telling you, wait until you see him on Saturday,’ and he was right. He was dead on.
“This guy’s never looked better, especially against the competition that he had. I’m looking forward to him getting a title fight in ’25. We’ll see how this plays out here, but I want him to fight in the United States. I want him to fight for a title here in the U.S.”
With White’s endorsement and a flawless record, Chimaev’s path to a title fight appears inevitable. Whether it’s Du Plessis or another challenger standing across the Octagon, 2025 could mark the year Chimaev claims UFC gold.
