TLDR
- Khamzat Chimaev revealed he makes more money from sponsorship deals than from his UFC fights
- The champion addressed criticism about his infrequent fight schedule, saying he doesn’t care about outside opinions
- Chimaev will defend his UFC middleweight title against Sean Strickland on May 9 at UFC 328 in Newark
- He won the championship by defeating Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in Chicago
- The fighter said brands and sponsors regularly approach him with partnership opportunities
Sources: MMA News | National Today | Times of India | Bloody Elbow
UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has revealed that he earns more money from sponsorship deals than from his UFC fights. The admission came during an interview on Beyond The Win ahead of his title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9 in Newark.
Chimaev explained that brands and companies are eager to work with him because of the fame he has built. “I make more money out of the UFC because of what I’ve become, like ‘Khamzat Chimaev,'” he said.
“Wherever I go, people want to sponsor me, they want to do different things with me and they send this and that,” Chimaev added.
The champion has faced growing criticism for his infrequent fight schedule since bursting onto the scene in 2020. He made UFC history that year with the fastest three-fight winning streak in modern UFC history.
However, health issues including a battle with coronavirus and travel restrictions have slowed his pace. Chimaev has often fought just once per year in recent times.
Champion Dismisses Critics
Chimaev showed little concern for those questioning his activity level. “I don’t care what these guys do,” he said during the interview.
“I am making millions and people are just talking and doing nothing. If you do your work I don’t need to watch how often you work or how much you get,” the champion stated.
He emphasized that his focus remains on his own success rather than public opinion. “I care about myself, how much I make, how much I get,” Chimaev said.
The Chechen-born fighter reflected on how far he has come from his humble beginnings. “I’ve been living in the gym and now I am living my dream,” he told the interviewer.
Chimaev won the UFC middleweight championship by defeating Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in Chicago. The victory capped off his meteoric rise through the division.
Title Defense Against Strickland
The upcoming fight against Strickland marks Chimaev’s first title defense as champion. The two fighters have developed a heated rivalry that has built anticipation for the bout.
The event will take place at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. If Chimaev successfully defends his title, he could potentially fight again later in 2026 on the UFC’s annual Abu Dhabi card.
Chimaev’s revelation about his income sources highlights the changing financial landscape for top UFC fighters. Champions can now leverage their popularity to secure lucrative partnerships outside the octagon.
The fighter made clear that he will not change his approach based on outside pressure. “These people are just talking and doing nothing,” he said of his critics.
Chimaev expressed satisfaction with his UFC compensation but emphasized it is not his primary revenue stream. His brand power has opened doors to various business opportunities and collaborations.
The champion said sponsors reach out to him regularly with offers. He receives proposals for partnerships and product endorsements wherever he travels.
Chimaev’s fight against Strickland on May 9, 2026 will be his first appearance in the octagon since winning the championship.
