Now it's on? Chimaev overcomes COVID-19 aftereffects and physical problems to face Whittaker at UFC 308

Khamzat Shimaev entering the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @khamzat_chimaev

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One of the most promising names in world MMA, Khamzat Shimaev has seen his meteoric rise in the UFC marked by constant interruptions. Health problems, especially the after-effects of Covid-19, have been a nightmare for the fighter, casting doubt on his ability to maintain the frenetic pace that characterized him in the early years of his career. Now, he has everything scheduled and prepared to face Robert whittaker No. UFC 308 this Saturday (26), but uncertainty still persists.

The novel coronavirus infection, contracted in 2020, left deep scars on Chimaev. A persistent cough, chronic fatigue and low immunity turned the fighter into a real 'medical puzzle'.

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The Swede revealed that he came to believe he had cancer, such were the intensity of the symptoms.

“In the last stages of my recovery, I thought I might have something more serious,” Chimaev told RT Sport.

In addition to respiratory problems, the fighter also faced difficulties controlling his weight, which resulted in canceled fights – one, including, against Nate diaz after the weigh-in — and a considerable loss of physical fitness. The intense training routine, marked by a frenetic pace and little rest, further aggravated Chimaev's clinical condition, leading him to be hospitalized on several occasions.

the fight against Robert whittaker, scheduled for the UFC Saudi Arabia, would be another chapter in the Swede's saga of overcoming. However, a new injury, this time less than ten days before the event, frustrated the plans of Khamzat and his fans. The fight was rescheduled and has everything to happen. The Swede, in fact, was the last to make weight in the measurements this Friday (25).

New balance for Chimaev

Aware of the challenges he faces, Chimaev says he has changed his approach to training. The idea is to find a balance between intense training and the need to take care of his physical and mental health.

“Now they (coaches) let me rest and recover properly,” said the Swede.