UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has made it clear that he has no plans to leave mixed martial arts for boxing. The undefeated star is currently focused on defending his title against Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9. This will be his first title defense since winning the belt from Dricus du Plessis last year. However, Chimaev has hinted at one special boxing fight that could interest him in the future.
Chimaev Targets McGregor for One-Off Boxing Showdown
The Chechen fighter recently spoke about a possible crossover bout against former UFC champion Conor McGregor. He insisted that he will remain a UFC fighter for his entire career. However, the UFC icon admitted that a boxing match against McGregor could be exciting. Chimaev also pointed out that such a fight would bring a big payday. A huge paycheck will be a tempting one-off opportunity.
Chimaev is preparing for a tough challenge against Sean Strickland, who is aiming to become a two-time UFC middleweight champion. Chimaev won the title by dominating Dricus du Plessis with heavy control and wrestling. That performance showed his strength on the ground, but he also believes in his striking abilities. Earlier in his career, he knocked out Gerald Meerschaert in just 17 seconds, proving he can finish fights quickly.
Loyalty to UFC with One Exception
Speaking ahead of UFC 328, Chimaev explained that he has no intention of moving fully into boxing. He said he plans to stay loyal to the UFC. However, he added that if the opportunity comes through Dana White's Zuffa Boxing promotion, he would consider stepping into the ring against Conor McGregor. According to Chimaev, McGregor is one of the best boxers in the UFC, and facing him in a boxing match would be both exciting and financially rewarding.
Chimaev also mentioned that such a fight would be entertaining because of McGregor's personality and ability to promote fights. He suggested that the Irish star brings more excitement than many others, including his upcoming opponent Strickland.
McGregor's Return and Crossover Prospects
Meanwhile, McGregor is expected to return at UFC 329 during International Fight Week in Las Vegas. The former two-division champion has not fought since 2021 and has been largely inactive since his famous boxing match against Floyd Mayweather in 2017. Although many fighters have shown interest in crossover boxing bouts, UFC president Dana White has not yet supported the idea.
Chimaev remains focused on his UFC career, but the prospect of a lucrative boxing match against McGregor lingers as a potential future spectacle.
