Khamzat Chimaev has revealed he spent between $600,000 and $700,000 to construct a wrestling gym for children in his village in Chechnya. In an interview on the Beyond The Win channel, Chimaev explained that he fights not only for himself but to help others, and that money provides opportunities to assist people in his community. He also helps with other needs such as medical expenses when villagers reach out to him. Chimaev responded to criticism about his activity level by saying he doesn't care because he earns millions from the UFC and even more outside of fighting through sponsorships and business opportunities. He stated he is happy with what the UFC pays him and is living his dream.
Khamzat Chimaev has revealed he invested between $600,000 and $700,000 of his own money to build a wrestling gym for children in his home village in Chechnya, describing the project as a reflection of his broader commitment to his community.
Speaking on the Beyond The Win channel, the welterweight-turned-middleweight contender explained that fighting has never been purely a personal pursuit. He noted that financial success creates the ability to help those around him, and that he also steps in to cover medical costs when villagers reach out to him directly.
Chimaev, known as "Borz," currently sits at number one in the middleweight rankings and number ten in the pound-for-pound standings, carrying a professional record of 15-1. The 32-year-old, who represents the United Arab Emirates and trains out of Allstars Training Center, has built a reputation as one of the most dominant all-around fighters in the UFC. His numbers reflect that: he lands 4.04 significant strikes per minute at a 60 percent accuracy rate, while averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes — a combination that makes him a singular threat in any championship conversation.
Chimaev also addressed critics who question his activity level inside the octagon. He was direct in his response, stating he is unconcerned by the noise because he earns millions from the UFC and generates additional income through sponsorships and business ventures outside of fighting. He added that he is content with his UFC compensation and considers himself to be living his dream.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's comments offer a rare look at how a top contender allocates his fight earnings beyond the sport
- His dismissal of activity criticism signals confidence in his financial and competitive position heading into whatever the UFC books next
- As the number one middleweight, any public statement from Chimaev carries weight for the division's title picture
