In a recent media event in Southern California, UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev surprised fans by revealing a new ambition: he wants to step into the boxing ring and face Conor McGregor. The 32\u2011year\u2011old fighter, who has built a reputation for his ferocious grappling and striking in the octagon, made the comment during a workout session ahead of his scheduled fight with Sean Strickland at UFC 328. While the idea of a Chimaev\u2011McGregor showdown would generate massive interest, Chimaev made it clear that he has no intention of permanently switching sports.<\/p>\n
Conor McGregor is no stranger to the boxing world. He famously fought Floyd Mayweather in August 2017, a bout that became one of the most lucrative and widely viewed fights in combat sports history. McGregor\u2019s charisma, combined with Chimaev\u2019s rising star status, would create a headline event that could draw millions of viewers and billions in pay\u2011per\u2011view revenue. The prospect of a 12\u2011round boxing match between the two fighters has already sparked speculation among fans and analysts alike.<\/p>\n
Chimaev, however, emphasized that the idea is purely exploratory. He said, \u201cI\u2019m not going to move over to the boxing permanently,\u201d but added that it would be \u201cnice\u201d to box McGregor, whom he described as \u201cone of the best boxers in the UFC.\u201d The comment suggests that the fight would be a one\u2011off crossover event rather than a career shift.<\/p>\n
While the boxing conversation has been buzzing, Chimaev\u2019s primary focus remains his upcoming title fight against Sean Strickland at UFC 328 in Newark. The matchup has already become heated, with both fighters exchanging heated words in the lead\u2011up to the bout. Chimaev\u2019s training camp has intensified, and he has been working with light heavyweight contender Khalil Rountree to sharpen his skills.<\/p>\n
Rountree, who competes at 205 pounds, has expressed confidence that Chimaev could handle the weight jump. If Chimaev were to move up to the light heavyweight division, it could shake up the entire division and create new rivalries. Rountree\u2019s training sessions with Chimaev have focused on both striking and grappling, ensuring the champion remains well\u2011rounded as he prepares for Strickland.<\/p>\n
In addition to Rountree, Chimaev has been training with other high\u2011level fighters, including Brendan Allen and Alan Nascimento. Allen, who previously faced Strickland, has offered his perspective on the upcoming fight, describing Strickland\u2019s trash talk as \u201call talk.\u201d Nascimento, known for his disciplined approach, has helped Chimaev refine his striking defense and footwork.<\/p>\n
These training partners provide a diverse range of skills that Chimaev can draw upon. By working with fighters from different weight classes and styles, he ensures that he is prepared for any scenario\u2014whether it\u2019s a grappling\u2011heavy bout against Strickland or a potential boxing match with McGregor.<\/p>\n
There is no official announcement yet. Chimaev\u2019s statement was made in a casual context, and while the idea is intriguing, it remains speculative.<\/p>\n
Chimaev has explicitly stated that he does not plan to transition to boxing as his primary sport.<\/p>\n