Why did Khamzat Chimaev drop out against Robert Whittaker? Fight cancellations and more

Since his electrifying debut in the UFC Khamzat Chimaev has proven to be a formidable presence in the Octagon, displaying intense wrestling skills and an undefeated record that is quickly setting him apart. But what began as a meteoric rise has recently been hampered by several unexpected fight cancellations.

One of the most anticipated fights was his scheduled clash with Robert Whittakerwhich is scheduled to take place on June 23rd at the beginning of the year. Unfortunately, much to the disappointment of fans and the UFC, the fight had to be postponed at the last moment. But what caused the undefeated middleweight contender to pull out of such a highly anticipated match? Let's take a closer look at the details behind this rescheduling.

Why was Khamzat Chimaev vs. Robert Whittaker canceled?

Two of the middleweight powerhouses, Robert Whittaker and Khamzat Chimaev, were scheduled to fight each other a few months ago. This was the UFC's first appearance in Saudi Arabia and was promised to be a blockbuster main event. However, the entire event was dealt a blow when Chimaev pulled out of the fight at the last moment.

UFC CEO Dana White announced that the middleweight fighter was “Seriously ill” and wouldn't make it to the fight. Immediately after the announcement, Chimaev and his team were treated and pictures of “Borz” in a hospital bed went viral.

It was later discovered that Chimaev's rigorous overtraining had damaged his immune system and caused a number of health problems. “Borz” is considered one of the hardest working fighters in the UFC and is famous for his intensive training camps. However, the downside of such a relentless approach is that inadequate recovery between sessions has resulted in missed fights and a loss of momentum in his division.

This isn't the first time Chimaev has been forced to withdraw from a main event. He has had six canceled fights in the last four years, five of which were high-profile main events. While COVID-19 impacted some of these cancellations, Chimaev's health issues were the primary reason for most of these cancellations. Now he's scheduled to face Robert Whittaker again at UFC 308 – the same opponent he previously had to take out of the fight. Could there be further cancellations? Let's take a closer look at his track record.

More fight cancellations in Khamzat Chimaev's career

Khamzat Chimaev has unfortunately pulled out of his fights, including in main events. The “Emriti” fight against the former welterweight world champion Leon Edwards had to be canceled three times between 2020 and 2021. During this time, Chimaev suffered from COVID-19 and struggled with his recovery. His next big opportunity came when he was asked to take over Nate Diaz at UFC 279.

But the fight never took place as “Borz” weighed 178.5 pounds, seven and a half pounds over the required welterweight limit. As a punishment, he had to move to the co-main event. “Borz” has reportedly returned to his first wrestling coach Salim Selbievich Under him, the UFC star should overcome his previous deficits. In the last interview, he pointed out that this time he has changed his training plan and is listening to his body and allowing for a full recovery.

Ideally, fans would like to see Khamzat Chimaev back in action as he is one of the best in the world. However, looking at his past records, you can never be sure. Do you think Khamzat Chimaev will show up? UFC 308 this time? Let us know what you think in the comments below.