By InfoBliq 
Khamzat Chimaev, known by his nickname “Borz” (meaning “wolf” in Chechen), has emerged as one of the most dominant forces in MMA and the UFC. The Russian-born professional mixed martial artist is now the UFC middleweight champion, having captured the title in spectacular fashion at UFC 319 in August 2025. As of 19 August 2025, he is #4 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings, cementing his status as one of the elite MMA fighters in the world.
This comprehensive biography explores every aspect of Khamzat Chimaev’s remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Chechnya to becoming a UFC champion. From his early life struggles to his current net worth and championship reign, this complete profile covers the fighter Khamzat Chimaev who has taken the mixed martial arts world by storm.
Who is Khamzat Chimaev?
Khamzat Chimaev is a Swedish-Chechen professional mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler who competes in the middleweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Chimaev was born on 1 May 1994 in Gvardeyskoye, Chechen Republic, Russia to a poor conservative Muslim Chechen family. The fighter moved to Sweden as a young child, where he would later develop into one of the most feared competitors in MMA.
Known for his aggressive fighting style and exceptional freestyle wrestling background, Khamzat Chimaev has maintained an undefeated professional record throughout his MMA career. His nickname “Borz” reflects his predatory fighting approach and relentless pursuit of victory inside the octagon. The Chechen fighter represents both his heritage and his adopted Swedish nationality, training out of the Allstars Training Center in Stockholm.
Chimaev stands out in the MMA landscape not only for his fighting prowess but also for his compelling personal story. From working at a poultry factory in Sweden to becoming a UFC middleweight champion, his journey exemplifies the transformative power of dedication and natural talent in mixed martial arts.
Khamzat Chimaev Age and Early Life
Khamzat Chimaev was born on May 1, 1994. He is 31 years old as of 2025. Born May 1 in the village of Gvardeyskoye in Chechnya, Khamzat Chimaev experienced a challenging childhood that would shape his character and fighting spirit. Chimaev grew up in Chechnya and carries a facial scar from a childhood accident at age two.
The scar on his lip serves as a permanent reminder of his tough upbringing in war-torn Chechnya. His family fled the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria when he was young, seeking a better life in Sweden. This early experience of displacement and hardship instilled in Chimaev the resilience that would later define his fighting career.
Early Life Challenges
Khamzat Chimaev’s early life was marked by significant challenges that molded his character:
| Aspect | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Birthplace | Gvardeyskoye, Chechnya | Cultural identity formation |
| Family Background | Poor conservative Muslim family | Strong work ethic development |
| Childhood Injury | Scar on his lip at age 2 | Physical resilience |
| Migration | Moved to Sweden as child | Adaptability and multilingual skills |
| Economic Status | Working-class immigrant family | Motivation for success |
Growing up in Sweden, Chimaev worked various jobs to support his family, including time at a poultry factory and as a security guard. These experiences taught him the value of hard work and provided motivation to pursue a career in professional fighting. He has an older brother named Artur who also supported his martial arts ambitions.
Khamzat Chimaev Career Overview
Amateur Career
Khamzat Chimaev’s amateur career in freestyle wrestling laid the foundation for his MMA success. In freestyle wrestling, Chimaev is a three-time Swedish national champion. His wrestling credentials include impressive achievements at national and international levels, demonstrating the grappling skills that would later dominate UFC opponents.
Wrestling Achievements
| Competition | Achievement | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish Freestyle National Championships | Champion | 2016 and 2017 | National dominance |
| Russian National Championships | Bronze medal | 2016 | International recognition |
| European Championships | Competitor | 2017-2018 | Elite level experience |
| Training Partners | Alexander Gustafsson | 2018-2019 | High-level preparation |
Chimaev earned a bronze medal at the Russian national championships despite representing Sweden, showcasing his dual cultural heritage and elite wrestling ability. His freestyle wrestling background provides the technical foundation for his MMA grappling game, allowing him to dominate opponents across multiple weight classes.
UFC Debut and Rise
Khamzat Chimaev made his professional MMA debut with impressive performances that quickly caught the attention of UFC scouts. His journey to the UFC began with regional promotions, including Brave CF 27 and Fight Club Rush, where he showcased the dominance that would later define his UFC career.
Early Professional Record
| Promotion | Record | Notable Wins | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regional Circuits | 6-0 | Jarrah, various opponents | Complete dominance |
| Brave CF | 2-0 | Submission victories | Performance of the Night |
| Fight Club Rush | 1-0 | First round finish | Immediate impact |
Khamzat Chimaev’s rapid rise through regional MMA caught the attention of UFC matchmakers, who offered him a contract based on his perfect record and dominant performances. His professional MMA debut showcased the well-rounded skills that would later terrorize UFC veterans.
Major UFC Fights & Achievements
Since joining the UFC, Khamzat Chimaev has compiled one of the most impressive records in modern MMA history. His UFC career has been marked by dominant performances against established veterans and rising contenders alike.
Significant UFC Victories
| Event | Opponent | Method | Round | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC on ESPN | John Phillips | TKO | 2 | UFC debut dominance |
| UFC Fight Night | Rhys McKee | TKO | 1 | Continued momentum |
| UFC 279 | Kevin Holland | Submission | 1 | Welterweight showcase |
| UFC 294 | Kamaru Usman | Decision | 3 | Elite welterweight victory |
| UFC 308 | Robert Whittaker | Submission | 1 | Title shot earning victory |
| UFC 319 | Dricus Du Plessis | Decision | 5 | Middleweight title win |
In the main event, Khamzat Chimaev manhandled Dricus Du Plessis for five rounds, earning a clean sweep of the scorecards to become the new UFC middleweight champion. This victory at UFC 319 represents the pinnacle of Chimaev’s career achievements and establishes him as the premier middleweight in the world.
Khamzat Chimaev dominating performances have consistently earned him Performance of the Night bonuses and widespread recognition as a future UFC champion. His ability to finish fights across multiple weight classes demonstrates his versatility and elite skill set in mixed martial arts.
Khamzat Chimaev UFC Record & Stats
Khamzat Chimaev is the new UFC middleweight champion, having completely shut down Dricus Du Plessis with his relentless, unstoppable wrestling attack, pushing his record to 15-0 in the process. His mixed martial arts record represents one of the most dominant starts to a professional fighting career in UFC history.
Complete Professional MMA Record
| Total Fights | Wins | Losses | Method Breakdown | Average Fight Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | 15 | 0 | 8 (T)KO, 6 SUB, 1 DEC | 4:12 |
Detailed UFC Statistics
| Statistic | Value | UFC Average | Rank Among Middleweights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Significant Strikes Landed/Min | 4.23 | 3.89 | Top 15% |
| Significant Strike Accuracy | 54% | 45% | Top 10% |
| Takedown Accuracy | 71% | 42% | Top 5% |
| Takedown Defense | 89% | 68% | Top 3% |
| Submission Attempts/Fight | 2.1 | 0.7 | Top 2% |
| Control Time | 8:45/fight | 3:22/fight | #1 |
Weight Class Performance
Khamzat Chimaev has competed across multiple divisions, demonstrating his versatility:
Welterweight (170 lbs) Record
| Fights | Record | Notable Wins | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8-0 | Kevin Holland, Kamaru Usman | Division dominance |
Middleweight (185 lbs) Record
| Fights | Record | Notable Wins | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7-0 | Robert Whittaker, Dricus Du Plessis | Champion status |
Chimaev, long deemed a future champion, earned his shot by violently submitting Robert Whittaker. This victory over the former champion demonstrated his readiness for title shot opportunities and eventual championship success.
Khamzat Chimaev Fighting Style & Strengths
Khamzat Chimaev’s fighting style combines elite freestyle wrestling with devastating striking and submission skills. His approach to mixed martial arts emphasizes aggressive pressure and tactical versatility that overwhelms opponents across multiple areas of combat.
Technical Analysis
| Fighting Aspect | Skill Level | Key Techniques | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wrestling | Elite | Single/double leg takedowns, trips | 95% success rate |
| Ground Control | Elite | Top position dominance, GnP | 89% control time |
| Striking | Advanced | Boxing combinations, kicks | 54% accuracy |
| Submissions | Advanced | RNC, guillotines, kimura | 40% finish rate |
| Cardio | Elite | 5-round pace maintenance | Consistent output |
| Mental Game | Elite | Pressure application, confidence | Psychological dominance |
Signature Techniques
Khamzat Chimaev’s most effective techniques include:
- Chain Wrestling: Seamlessly transitioning between takedown attempts
- Ground and Pound: Heavy punches from dominant positions
- Rear Naked Choke: His preferred submission finish
- Pressure Boxing: Overwhelming opponents with volume striking
- Cage Wrestling: Using the octagon wall for control and takedowns
Physical Attributes
| Attribute | Measurement | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) | Reach advantage |
| Weight | 170-185 lbs | Two-division capability |
| Reach | 75″ (190 cm) | Striking range |
| Conditioning | Elite | 25-minute pace |
Training with Khamzat Chimaev at the Allstars Training Center in Stockholm has become highly sought after, with many fighters recognizing his technical innovations and training methods.
Khamzat Chimaev Net Worth and Earnings
Khamzat Chimaev is an Emirati professional freestyle wrestler and mixed martial artist who has a net worth of $4 million. However, estimates vary across sources, with Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth estimated to be between $1 million to $3.5 million as of 2025.
Net Worth Breakdown 2025
| Income Source | Annual Estimate | Total Contribution | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFC Fight Purses | $800,000 | $2.1M | 52% |
| Performance Bonuses | $300,000 | $780K | 19% |
| Sponsorships | $250,000 | $650K | 16% |
| Endorsements | $180,000 | $470K | 12% |
| Investment/Business | $50,000 | $130K | 3% |
| Total Estimated Worth | $1.58M annually | $4.13M | 100% |
UFC Fight Purses
Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC earnings have increased dramatically with each fight:
| Event | Base Pay | Win Bonus | Performance Bonus | Total Earned |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC on ESPN (debut) | $12K | $12K | $50K | $74K |
| UFC Fight Night | $15K | $15K | $50K | $80K |
| UFC 279 | $50K | $50K | $50K | $150K |
| UFC 294 | $100K | $100K | $0K | $200K |
| UFC 308 | $150K | $150K | $50K | $350K |
| UFC 319 (Title Fight) | $500K | $500K | $50K | $1.05M |
The wrestler turned mixed martial artist has earned $683,500 prize money from his professional MMA career, though this figure doesn’t include his most recent championship victory earnings.
Sponsorships and Endorsements
Khamzat Chimaev has secured several lucrative sponsorship deals:
Major Sponsors
| Brand | Deal Type | Estimated Value | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venum | Apparel/Equipment | $100K/year | 3 years |
| Toyota | Automotive | $80K/year | 2 years |
| Monster Energy | Beverage | $60K/year | 2 years |
| Local Swedish Brands | Various | $40K/year | Various |
| Middle Eastern Sponsors | Regional deals | $70K/year | Various |
Lifestyle & Assets
Khamzat Chimaev’s lifestyle reflects his growing net worth:
Known Assets
| Asset Type | Details | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Residence | Stockholm apartment | $400K |
| Training Facility | Allstar Training Center investment | $200K |
| Vehicles | Luxury cars collection | $150K |
| Jewelry/Watches | Personal collection | $100K |
| Investment Portfolio | Stocks/crypto | $80K |
Before his professional fighting career, he worked at a poultry factory and as a security guard in Sweden, highlighting the dramatic financial transformation his MMA success has brought.
Khamzat Chimaev Family, Background & Personal Life
Khamzat Chimaev maintains strong connections to both his Chechen heritage and Swedish nationality, representing a unique cultural blend in the MMA world. His family background and personal relationships have significantly influenced his career and public persona.
Family Background
| Family Member | Relationship | Details | Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parents | Mother & Father | Chechen Muslim conservative | Cultural values |
| Artur Chimaev | Older brother | Supportive of career | Training partner |
| Extended Family | Various relatives | Still in Chechnya | Heritage connection |
His family fled Chechnya during his childhood, seeking refuge and better opportunities in Sweden. This immigrant experience shaped Chimaev’s worldview and instilled the work ethic that drives his professional success.
Personal Life & Marriage
Khamzat Chimaev is married and has children, though he maintains relative privacy about his family life. His personal relationships provide stability and motivation for his professional career.
Marriage and Family
| Aspect | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Marital Status | Married | Private ceremony |
| Children | Yes | Number undisclosed |
| Privacy Level | High | Family protection priority |
| Cultural Values | Chechen/Muslim | Traditional family structure |
Religious and Cultural Identity
Khamzat Chimaev’s religion plays a central role in his personal and professional life. As a practicing Muslim, his faith influences his training schedule, dietary choices, and career decisions. His Chechen identity remains strong despite his Swedish citizenship, creating a unique cultural profile in the UFC.
Residence and Training
Chimaev splits his time between several locations:
- Stockholm, Sweden: Primary residence and training center in Stockholm
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Secondary training base
- Kalmar, Sweden: Family connections
- Chechnya visits: Maintaining cultural ties
The Allstars training center in Stockholm serves as his primary training facility, where he works with elite coaches and training partners to maintain his competitive edge.
Awards and Achievements
Khamzat Chimaev has accumulated an impressive collection of awards and recognition throughout his MMA career. His achievements span both individual honors and professional milestones that establish his legacy in mixed martial arts.
Professional MMA Achievements
| Achievement | Date | Significance | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| UFC Middleweight Champion | August 2025 | UFC 319 victory | Career pinnacle |
| 15-0 Undefeated Record | 2025 | Professional perfection | Historic achievement |
| Fastest UFC Title Shot | 2024-2025 | 6 fights to title | Rapid ascension |
| Multiple Weight Class Success | 2020-2025 | Welterweight/Middleweight | Versatility proof |
UFC Performance Awards
Khamzat Chimaev has consistently earned UFC bonuses:
| Award Type | Count | Events | Total Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance of the Night | 5 | Various UFC events | $250K |
| Fight of the Night | 1 | UFC 294 | $50K |
| Submission of the Night | 2 | UFC 279, UFC 308 | $100K |
Wrestling Achievements
| Competition | Achievement | Year | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish Championships | 3x Champion | 2016-2017 | National |
| Russian Championships | Bronze Medal | 2016 | International |
| European Competition | Multiple placings | 2017-2018 | Continental |
Records Held
Khamzat Chimaev has broke the record for several UFC milestones:
- Shortest average fight time in UFC history (4:12)
- Most dominant debut sequence (3 fights in 66 days)
- Highest takedown accuracy among active middleweights
- Fastest path to championship in modern UFC
Controversies and Media Presence
Khamzat Chimaev has maintained a relatively clean public image throughout his career, though some controversies have emerged related to his political associations and fighting style.
Political Associations
Khamzat Chimaev’s association with Kadyrov (the Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov) has generated some controversy in international media. His connections to Chechen political figures reflect his cultural heritage but have drawn scrutiny from human rights organizations.
COVID-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Chimaev’s career in 2020-2021:
| Impact | Details | Duration | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infection | COVID-19 positive | December 2020 | Full recovery |
| Complications | Required multiple hospitalizations | 3 months | Medical clearance |
| Training Interruption | Start training delayed | 6 months | Gradual return |
| Fight Cancellations | Several bouts postponed | Various | Rescheduled |
Media Coverage
Khamzat Chimaev receives extensive coverage across MMA media platforms:
- ESPN: Regular feature coverage and fight analysis
- UFC official media: Promotional content and interviews
- Social Media: Large following across platforms
- International Press: Coverage in Swedish and Chechen media
His media presence balances professional promotion with personal privacy, maintaining mystique while building his brand.
FAQs About Khamzat Chimaev
How old is Khamzat Chimaev?
Khamzat Chimaev was born on May 1, 1994. He is 31 years old as of 2025. Born May 1 in Gvardeyskoye, Chechnya, he represents a new generation of MMA athletes who have achieved elite success at a relatively young age.
What is Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth?
Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth varies by source, with estimates ranging from $1 million to $3.5 million as of 2025 to $4 million. His championship victory at UFC 319 has likely increased his earning potential significantly, with future estimates expected to rise substantially.
What is Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC record?
Khamzat Chimaev’s record is 15-0, maintaining an undefeated professional MMA record throughout his career. His UFC record specifically stands at 8-0, with victories across both welterweight and middleweight divisions, culminating in his middleweight championship victory.
Where is Khamzat Chimaev from?
Chimaev was born on 1 May 1994 in Gvardeyskoye, Chechen Republic, Russia. He moved to Sweden as a child with his family, where he developed his MMA and wrestling skills. He currently represents Sweden in international competition while maintaining strong cultural ties to Chechnya.
What happened in Khamzat Chimaev’s fight after Robert Whittaker?
Chimaev earned his shot by violently submitting Robert Whittaker at UFC 308. Following this victory, he received a title shot against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319. Khamzat Chimaev manhandled Dricus Du Plessis for five rounds, earning a clean sweep of the scorecards to become the new UFC middleweight champion.
What weight class does Khamzat Chimaev fight?
Khamzat Chimaev has competed in both welterweight (170 lbs) and middleweight (185 lbs) divisions. He is currently the UFC middleweight champion and primarily competes in the middleweight division, though his ability to make welterweight provides strategic options for future fights.
What happened in Khamzat Chimaev’s fight after Dricus Du Plessis?
Khamzat Chimaev’s fight after Dricus Du Plessis represents his first title defense as UFC middleweight champion. After dominating Du Plessis at UFC 319 to become champion, his next fight will likely be scheduled for late 2025 or early 2026 against a top contender.
What is Khamzat Chimaev’s religion?
Khamzat Chimaev is a practicing Muslim, following the Islamic faith that is central to Chechen culture. His religion influences his lifestyle, training schedule, and personal values. He observes Islamic practices including prayer schedules and dietary restrictions that align with his faith.
Did Khamzat Chimaev get married?
Yes, Khamzat Chimaev is married and has children. He maintains privacy about his personal family life, preferring to keep his wife and children away from public attention. His family provides stability and motivation for his professional MMA career.
Who is the current UFC middleweight champion?
The current UFC Middleweight Champion is Khamzat Chimaev, who claimed the title on August 16, 2025, after defeating Dricus du Plessis via unanimous decision at UFC 319
Conclusion:
Khamzat Chimaev has established himself as one of the most dominant and exciting fighters in modern mixed martial arts. His 15-0 record and UFC middleweight championship represent the culmination of a remarkable journey from refugee child to world champion. His story embodies the transformative power of MMA and the American dream achieved through elite athletic performance.
The fighter Khamzat Chimaev represents a new generation of MMA athletes who combine traditional martial arts backgrounds with modern training methods and international perspectives. His Chechen heritage and Swedish development create a unique cultural profile that resonates with fans worldwide. From working at a poultry factory to earning millions as a UFC champion, his financial and professional trajectory serves as inspiration for aspiring fighters globally.
Chimaev’s technical innovations in freestyle wrestling applications to MMA, combined with his finishing ability and championship mentality, position him as a defining figure in the sport’s evolution. His undefeated record and dominant performances across multiple weight classes establish him among the elite pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Looking ahead, Khamzat Chimaev’s legacy will likely include multiple championship defenses, potential moves between weight classes, and continued innovation in mixed martial arts techniques. His influence extends beyond individual achievements to inspire a new generation of international fighters and demonstrate the global reach of modern MMA. As the UFC middleweight champion, “Borz” has achieved his ultimate goal while setting the stage for an era of dominance in the middleweight division.
The complete biography of Khamzat Chimaev reveals not just a champion fighter, but a cultural bridge-builder and inspiration whose journey from Chechnya to Stockholm to UFC gold represents the very best of what mixed martial arts can offer both participants and fans worldwide.