Khamzat Chimaev Adresses U.S. Travel Ban Rumors Ahead Of UFC 308

Khamzat Chimaev recently responded to rumors that he’s unable to fight in the United States due to a potential travel ban. Chimaev’s career has indeed been marked by several health setbacks, notably a severe COVID-19 bout that nearly led to early retirement.

This, coupled with other surgeries and personal matters, resulted in a schedule that saw him competing closer to home in Abu Dhabi rather than traveling to the U.S. However, as he prepares for his next fight against Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, Chimaev is making it clear that rumors of a travel ban are unfounded.

Khamzat Chimaev Denies He Is Ban From The United States

The UFC Star Explains Why He Fights In Abu Dhabi

Speaking with CBS Sports’ Shakiel Mahjouri, Chimaev assured fans that he’s free to travel and compete in the U.S., explaining that any absences from U.S.-based events are due to personal health issues rather than legal or visa complications.

“I’ve been to the U.S. and can come to the U.S., but a lot of things happened in my life with being sick and surgeries,” he stated, adding that his decision to fight in Abu Dhabi was based on proximity and convenience​.

The origins of these rumors can be traced back to reports in 2022, which alleged that Chimaev’s connections to controversial Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov might have impacted his visa status.

Given the UFC’s complex international dynamics, the rumors quickly gained traction online. Still, Chimaev has fought in the U.S. multiple times since his UFC debut in 2020, including bouts in Las Vegas and Florida. His willingness to travel for fights suggests no significant visa or travel restrictions​.

Adding further context, Chimaev emphasized in a separate interview that he’s ready to fight globally, with upcoming plans that include a potential appearance in Australia. “I’ve been to England, the UK, the U.S., and I’m going to go to Australia soon around December,” he shared.

Chimaev Wants To Stay Active After Health Struggles

His comments reflect a commitment to a diverse fighting career, focused more on maintaining an active schedule than where each fight takes place. For Chimaev, the ability to fight regularly matters most, and his choice of venue is often driven by logistical convenience rather than legal limitations.

As he prepares for his upcoming match, Chimaev aims to silence lingering doubts about his eligibility to fight in the U.S. “I don’t know who has a problem with me,” he remarked about the persistent rumors.

Chimaev is clearly more focused on his future in the UFC and remaining in top form, with his recent statements underscoring his readiness to take on top opponents wherever possible. With his eyes set on potential bouts in multiple countries, fans can likely expect to see Chimaev continue making headlines worldwide.