Khamzat Chimaev has made headlines once again, this time crediting US President Donald Trump for facilitating his return to the United States to compete in the UFC. After nearly three years of fighting exclusively in Abu Dhabi, Chimaev is set to face Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319 in Chicago, Illinois on 16 August 2025.

Chimaev, who has an impeccable record of 14 wins and no losses, has been unable to fight in the US due to visa issues. These complications were largely attributed to his association with Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, who is under US sanctions for alleged human rights abuses. Despite these challenges, Chimaev has maintained his focus on his career, stating, "This wasn't my bad. This wasn't my fault. Everyone knows I didn't have the visa to [travel to] the US. That's why I didn't fight only once [but twice] in Abu Dhabi. So now Donald Trump is here, we go for a fight."

Donald Trump, a close friend of UFC president Dana White, played a pivotal role in Chimaev's return. Trump, who was a key supporter during his 2024 election campaign, has expressed plans to host a UFC event at the White House next year as part of America's 250th anniversary celebrations. However, Chimaev remains skeptical about participating in such an event, emphasizing his disinterest in politics. "I don't understand why they're going to put the fights over there," said Chimaev. "I'm an athlete, a sportsman - all my life I've been training. Some people put me in a position like political and break my visa down and I don't know why. I'm just doing [it] for my family - fighting, training. Athletes don't have to be with politics. I'm not connected."

Chimaev's opponent, Dricus du Plessis, is making the third defense of his belt. Chimaev, on the other hand, is returning to the octagon after his victory over Robert Whittaker in October 2024. Despite being considered a future UFC champion, Chimaev's career has been marred by inactivity and illness in recent years. Since his last appearance in the US in 2022, where he submitted Kevin Holland, Chimaev has fought only once a year, defeating Kamaru Usman in 2023 and Whittaker 10 months ago.

This fight marks a significant moment in MMA history, as two of the sport's most formidable fighters clash in what promises to be an unforgettable event. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating this showdown, which could potentially reshape the landscape of the middleweight division.