Sheikh Zayed Welcomes World Champion Khamzat Chimaev in Abu Dhabi Following UFC 319 Victory
ABU DHABI, 18th August, 2025 – H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan officially welcomed world champion Khamzat Chimaev at Zayed International Airport after his resounding triumph at UFC 319 in Chicago. Chimaev secured the UFC Middleweight World Title by defeating South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis, reinforcing his reputation as a dominant force in mixed martial arts.
During the reception, Sheikh Zayed extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chimaev on his “historic achievement” and praised the champion’s determination, discipline, and “world-class performance,” which contributed to his first middleweight world title and maintained his undefeated record at 15 wins.
Sheikh Zayed also highlighted the unwavering support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the dedicated commitment of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, in fostering sports excellence and global competitiveness among Emirati athletes.
In response, Chimaev conveyed his appreciation for the UAE’s leadership. He said he is grateful for the support of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, especially “his steadfast support of combat sports and for creating an environment that enables athletes to thrive on the international stage.” Chimaev also offered sincere thanks to H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed for the “warm welcome and personal congratulations.”
The 31-year-old Chimaev, widely recognized as a rising force in mixed martial arts, continues to impress fans and experts alike with his tactical dominance and perfect 15-0 record in professional competition, positioning himself as a potential future legend in the sport.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
