Khamzat Chimaev shares why he doesn’t want to fight in the US despite having a visa

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On Saturday, Khamzat Chimaev returns to the US for the first time since his bout with Kevin Holland at UFC 279 back in 2022.

The Chechen faces Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title in Chicago, headlining UFC 319, a matchup that has been anticipated for over a year.

‘Stillknocks’ had shown interest in fighting Chimaev after successfully defending his title against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305. However, the bout was delayed due to visa issues.

Khamzat Chimaev explains why he isn’t interested in fighting in America

The scheduling of the fight in Chicago marked a positive development for Chimaev, particularly following a period of relative inactivity.

Even though his visa issues have been sorted, ‘Borz’ has since said he probably won’t appear on the White House card, and he had a message for Donald Trump.

• READ MORE: UFC 319 loses two fights in hours as the promotion acts quickly to adjust the card

But that might not be the only reason. Speaking to Main Event TV, Chimaev explained why fighting in America doesn’t really appeal to him anymore.

“I don’t know (how active I want to be), whatever they give I am open for that. I was always – when I’m healthy, I always win in fights, so it wasn’t my fault I didn’t fight often, now we have the visa, we’re here.

“After that, I hope we get in Abu Dhabi as well, defend the belt. No (I don’t want to fight in America more), I wanna fight in UAE, bro. You make more money there, that’s my country, I represent that country, the best country in the world so I’m always happy to fight there,” Chimaev continued.

The tax differences between the United States and UAE are substantial. Fighters often see more of their earnings when competing in Abu Dhabi compared to events held stateside.

Chimaev shares his plans for UFC 319 earnings

Even though the fight isn’t taking place in the UAE, Chimaev is still expected to take home a decent sum from this weekend’s bout.

He’s already shared what he plans to do with his earnings, saying most of it will go to his family since he’s never been interested in spending on flashy items.