UFC star Khamzat Chimaev has been hospitalized with an unknown illness.
The Russian demolition machine should return to the octagon next weekend in the main fight of UFC on ABC 6 in Saudi Arabia.
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But an unknown illness has forced the Chechen clubber to withdraw from his highly anticipated middleweight clash with former champion Robert Whittaker.
A worrying image of a “violently ill” Chimaev lying in a hospital bed was shared on social media by his teammates Mukhammad Erskirkhanov and Guram Kuteladze.
UFC lightweight Kuteladze wrote: “Behind every hardship there is relief.”
Chimaev’s latest medical setback has MMA fans fearing for his fight futurewith an X written: “He will never be the same again”.
Another said: “It’s very unfortunate. It’s clear that COVID-19 has taken a toll on his body. Best wishes to Chimaev.”
And another said: “Khamzat is an unbelievable talent, I hope he is ok.”
One commented: “Your health The scares are worrying.”
Another added: “Honestly one of the saddest things ever.”
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Chimaev, 30, has yet to comment on his latest health scare, although his manager Majdi Shammas spoke on his behalf.
He wrote: “It is with great disappointment to announce that Khamzat Chimaev (13-0) has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled fight against third-ranked Robert Whittaker on June 22 in Riyadh.
“He was in and out of hospitals several times.
“The condition was maintained within the team, as everyone was absolutely committed to finding a solution.
“While all available options have been carefully considered, it has now reached a point where the team has mutually agreed that it is not possible to continue in this manner.
“Entering the cage without being properly prepared against an opponent as formidable as Robert is unfortunately impossible.
“This is a devastating turn of events for Khamzat, his coaches, training partners and other team members.
“The main attraction of the UFC’s first visit to Saudi Arabia It was a great honor and something long awaited.
“While the cause is far beyond anyone’s control, a sincere apology is extended to the UFC, Dana White, Mick Maynard, Sean Shelby, Hunter Campbell, His Highness Turki Alalshikh, Robert Whittaker and their team.
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“And most importantly, for the fans who were looking forward to the fight.
“But everything happens for a reason and God has his own plans, the goals remain the same.
“The persistent illness that Khamzat has been battling for much of the training camp could not be cured in time.
“Khamzat and the team will now get to the bottom of the cause of the problems and he will come back even stronger.
“Unfortunately, this is part of the fight game and as soon as Khamzat is healthy, his long-awaited return to the Octagon will be immediately rescheduled.”
Chimaev hasn’t fought since his decision victory over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 last October.
A win over Whittaker would have guaranteed him a shot at the middleweight title, which champion Dricus Du Plessis is expected to defend against Israel Adesanya later this year.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
