Khamzat Chimaev is one of the most dominant rising stars in MMA. With an undefeated UFC record of 14-0, he’s proven himself through knockouts, submissions, and hard-fought decisions. But despite his success, there’s one unfortunate setback — Chimaev is currently facing visa complications that prevent him from entering the U.S.
However, UFC President Dana White may have just given fans a bit of hope. Reporters asked him in a recent interview if Chimaev could headline the upcoming International Fight Week. While White didn’t share many details, his response sparked huge curiosity — and surprisingly, it sounded positive.
Dana White’s Cryptic Comment Sparks Hope for Khamzat Chimaev
The T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada, a part of Las Vegas, will host UFC 317 on Saturday, June 28, 2025. This event will be a major highlight of the 13th Annual UFC International Fight Week, running from June 25 to June 29, 2025.
For fans of Khamzat Chimaev, this event holds something extra special. His last fight in the U.S. was way back at UFC 279 in 2022. Since then, visa issues have kept him from returning to the U.S. octagon. But things may soon change.
Now a citizen of the United Arab Emirates, the 30-year-old might finally get the green light to fight in the U.S. again. And UFC 317 could be the perfect comeback moment.
During the UFC 314 post-fight press conference, Dana White dropped a hint that excited everyone. When asked if Chimaev could headline UFC 317, White smiled and said, “That would be fun… Tuesday!”
Dana White is asked if the Khamzat Chimaev could headline #UFC317 during International Fight Week
“That would be fun.” 👀👀
🎥 @ufc #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/WZTfHR5FkU
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 13, 2025
Although the answer was not definitive, it was enough to spark hope. The inclusion of UFC 317 in International Fight Week provides the ideal platform for the Russian fighter to excel. Now, all eyes are on what will happen next.
Khamzat Chimaev’s U.S. Return Looks More Likely
Khamzat Chimaev provided clarity in an interview with Shak MMA last year. He denied all rumors about being banned from the United States. Instead, he explained that he stayed away from U.S. fights due to personal reasons. These included health problems, surgery, and his choice to fight closer to home in Abu Dhabi.
Chimaev shared that he has already fought in the US, the UK, and England. He even said he’s planning to fight in Australia soon. With strong confidence, he said he can fight “anywhere,” putting all visa rumors to rest.
This update is enough to give fans a possible hope. It means Chimaev might return to the U.S. for UFC 317 during the 13th Annual International Fight Week. If it really happens, that would be a big moment for both Chimaev and MMA fans worldwide.
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