Published 56 days ago
After his loss to Strickland, Khamzat Chimaev is pushing for a quick return to the Octagon. Abu Dhabi in 2026 could be his next stop.
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Dana White hinted that Khamzat Chimaev could make his UFC return at the Abu Dhabi event in October 2026, following his loss to Sean Strickland in May 2026. An opportunity that reignites the Swede’s ambitions.
To remember:
- Dana White confirms that Khamzat Chimaev is among the fighters being considered for upcoming UFC cards.
- The Swede is looking to speed up his return after his loss to Sean Strickland in May 2026.
- UFC Abu Dhabi, scheduled for October 24, 2026, could host Chimaev’s comeback.
Incredible how things can turn on a dime in the Octagon! After his loss to Sean Strickland in May 2026, Khamzat Chimaev, the former UFC middleweight champion, saw his journey marked by a forced break. Yet, the 29-year-old Swede didn’t wait long before reigniting his quest for another fight. And according to Dana White’s latest statements, his return could very well materialize as early as October 2026… in Abu Dhabi.
During a post-Contender Series press conference, the UFC president initially played it coy, dodging direct questions about Chimaev. But faced with the media’s persistence, Dana White finally admitted that the Swede was indeed among the fighters being considered for upcoming cards. A statement that should reassure fans of the "Borz."
A return under the Abu Dhabi spotlight
The UFC has already scheduled a major event in Abu Dhabi for October 24, 2026. A date that aligns perfectly with Chimaev’s ambitions. While Dana White hasn’t guaranteed his presence, he confirmed that all fighters were being considered, without exception. A golden opportunity for the Swede, who has only fought twice in 2026 and is looking to maintain his pace despite his recent setback.
On social media, Chimaev hasn’t hidden his impatience. Between motivational messages and reminders of his past performances, he’s sending signals to show he’s ready to come back stronger. The question remains: will the UFC give him this chance… and will Abu Dhabi be the stage for his big return?
With a packed UFC schedule and high expectations for spectacular returns, Khamzat Chimaev’s name could well echo in the Octagon again as early as October 2026. One thing is certain: the Swede has no intention of letting his loss to Strickland define his future.