Khamzat Chimaev has stated his firm intention never to compete against Khalil Rountree Jr., a former challenger for the UFC light heavyweight championship. Chimaev, the reigning middleweight champion, is scheduled to face Sean Strickland at UFC 328 this weekend. Following this fight, “Borz” aims to defend his middleweight title and then move up to light heavyweight to pursue a second championship belt.
During a recent interview conducted during fight week, when questioned about the possibility of facing Rountree Jr. in the future, Chimaev described “The War Horse” as a brother and reiterated that he would never fight him. He contrasted this with the actions of Sean Strickland, whom he accused of false camaraderie.
“I will never fight Khalil. If I consider you a brother, I am a true brother. I won’t engage in the kind of nonsense Sean does; he calls you brother one day and fights you the next. I cannot do that. I want to be genuine.”
Chimaev and Rountree Jr. have been training partners for several months. Rountree Jr. has spoken highly of Chimaev’s dedication in training, noting that working alongside “Borz” has significantly enhanced his mental fortitude and improved him as a fighter in all aspects of mixed martial arts.
Furthermore, Khamzat Chimaev has also indicated a reluctance to fight Nassourdine Imavov. Although a bout between them was previously rumored, it did not materialize. Chimaev explained that both he and Imavov wished to avoid the fight due to their shared background, religious beliefs, and the close proximity of their respective regions, Dagestan and Chechnya.
“Naturally, neither of us wants to fight each other because we share the same religion, are from nearly the same country, and know each other. I genuinely believe he will be the next champion.”