UFC middleweight fighter Khamzat Chimaev suffered a torn ligament in his right hand during a recent victory over Kamaru Usman. The injury occurred during their middleweight bout at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi. Chimaev initially believed he had broken his hand in the first round, which affected his performance throughout the fight. However, his manager clarified that it was a torn ligament and not a fracture. Chimaev will wear a brace for about four weeks and then reassess the injury. It seems unlikely that he will require surgery at this point.
Before the fight with Usman, UFC president Dana White had stated that the winner would earn a title shot against newly crowned champion Sean Strickland. However, Strickland himself has expressed doubts about Chimaev’s deservingness of a title shot. Strickland argued that Chimaev has only secured one win in the middleweight division over the past three years, which he believes is not enough to earn a title shot.
UFC’s Intention to Book Chimaev’s Title Shot
Despite Strickland’s reservations, the UFC appears to be planning to book the title shot for Chimaev. This decision is somewhat surprising, considering Strickland’s skepticism about Chimaev’s qualifications. However, Chimaev’s hand injury is not expected to be a major hindrance. While Strickland may not believe that Chimaev has earned the title shot, the UFC seems to be prioritizing the potential for Chimaev to draw in a significant number of viewers and generate interest in the fight.
Khamzat Chimaev has been regarded as one of the most promising contenders in the UFC middleweight division since he joined the organization in 2020. His signing of a new long-term deal with the UFC just before the fight with Usman demonstrates the promotion’s confidence in his abilities and marketability. Chimaev has quickly gained attention for his dominant performances and impressive win streak. Despite limited experience in the middleweight division, he has managed to capture the interest of fans and experts alike.
Khamzat Chimaev’s torn ligament in his right hand presents a potential obstacle in his path towards a title shot. However, the UFC seems determined to book the fight regardless of the injury. This decision has stirred some controversy, with current champion Sean Strickland expressing doubts about Chimaev’s deservingness of the opportunity. Nonetheless, Chimaev’s status as a rising star and his ability to generate interest make him an appealing choice for the promotion. As fans eagerly await the announcement of the official bout, it remains to be seen if Chimaev can overcome his injury and prove his worth in the middleweight division.
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