It appears increasingly likely that Khamzat Chimaev will be fighting for the middleweight title soon, and an official announcement might be coming shortly.
After his dominant victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 last October, it seemed almost certain that Khamzat Chimaev would be the next challenger for Dricus Du Plessis` middleweight title.
However, the UFC surprised many by announcing a rematch between Sean Strickland and Du Plessis for the title at UFC 312. Du Plessis won against Strickland again, solidifying the expectation that Chimaev is next in line.
Adding to the anticipation, UFC President Dana White has stated that there are no longer any obstacles preventing Chimaev from fighting in the United States, which was previously reported as a potential issue.
Darren Till Suggests Chimaev`s Title Fight
Chimaev, eager for a title shot, recently excited fans by teasing `good news` about his career, suggesting that a fight against Du Plessis has been scheduled.
UFC president Dana White hinted after UFC 314 that Chimaev could face Du Plessis at UFC 317 during International Fight Week in late June.
Now, Darren Till, Chimaev`s longtime teammate and friend, has provided an even stronger hint regarding the 30-year-old`s next fight.
Till, who fought Du Plessis in 2022, could be valuable in Chimaev`s training camp, given his experience against the current champion. Despite losing to Du Plessis, Till had moments of success in their fight.
“Belt time,” Till posted on his Instagram story.
“Back to (United Arab Emirates) after the fight to work, son. Khamzat Chimaev, let’s get that belt,” he added.
While Chimaev previously trained at Allstars Gym in Sweden, he has recently reconnected with his former wrestling coach in Russia, where he is currently training.
Du Plessis vs Chimaev: A Highly Anticipated Matchup in 2025
Along with Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall, a potential fight between Du Plessis and Chimaev is one of the most highly anticipated matchups for 2025, with fans eagerly awaiting its announcement.
UFC commentator Jon Anik has mentioned it as one of the top three fights he hopes the UFC will make happen before the year ends.
Fans might not have to wait much longer, especially with the UFC`s ESPN deal concluding, as the promotion could announce the International Fight Week main event alongside news of a new broadcast agreement.
Rupert Hartwell 
Benedict Kingsley