There has been a lot of speculation as to when Khamzat Chimaev will finally make his return to the octagon, and we may now have an answer. Whilst giving an update to his fans, the undefeated star insisted the UFC wants him to fight at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi, which will take place on October 21.
Although nothing has been made official, all signs for 'Borz's next fight are pointing to Kamaru Usman as the two have been sharing words back and forth over social media for some time. 'The Nigerian Nightmare' failed in his attempt to reclaim the welterweight strap last time out when he lost the trilogy bout versus Leon Edwards.
In a video posted earlier today, Khamzat Chimaev discussed his next fight and gave more insight into when fans can expect him to compete next, and who it will likely be against.
"UFC told us we're going to fight in Abu Dhabi, so that's what I'm waiting for. I'm already here. I'm here in Dubai living here, training camp, everything good. I've been in shape a long time ago, I've been in a Thailand training camp, I've been here training camp, [and] I've been in Sweden training. [Now I'm] just waiting for the opponent and for the contract so we'll see what's going to happen. Usman wants to fight, I'll make it his last fight... I'm gonna fight this guy in Abu Dhabi and smash his face, finish him, and then they have to give me that title shot."
Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more
Chimaev's last fight inside the octagon was in September of last year when he scored a one-sided submission victory over Kevin Holland.
Alongside Khamzat Chimaev, who else will be in action at UFC 294?
Although we're still five months away from UFC 294, there have been talks of what fights could potentially take place in Abu Dhabi on October 21.
Alongside the aforementioned Khamzat Chimaev vs. Kamaru Usman rumors, reports suggest that Islam Makhachev will be putting his title on the line for the second time in the main event slot.
Another bout that could take place at the event is a clash between Leon Edwards and Colby Covington. The welterweight king stated his interest in defending his title in Abu Dhabi next.