Khamzat Chimaev (image via UFC/YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Following UFC 297, there seems to be plenty of talk about the possibility of a bout between Israel Adesanya and the new middleweight champ, Dricus Du Plessis. But, Khamzat Chimaev has made it clear he still expects to fight Du Plessis next.

In recent weeks, Chimaev has maintained he was promised a title shot, after he defeated Kamaru Usman in October. But, on account of Du Plessis calling out Adesanya after winning the belt at UFC 297, speculation about that fight has peaked once again.

While talking to ESPN, however, Chimaev repeated he expects to fight for the belt next (quotes via MMA Junkie.com).

“Israel (Adesanya) is out, I don’t know when he’s coming back,” Chimaev said. “What did he say, 2027 or something? All these guys fought each other. Only me who is undefeated and undisputed, you know? 13-0. … They promised me after Usman fight, ‘You are for sure going to fight for the title.’ I won that fight. I heard Dana White said, ‘I don’t think Khamzat is next for the title.’ That’s bullsh*t.”

“I don’t care if it’s some president or something,” Chimaev said. “If you give your word, you have to answer for that. … I will be surprised if somebody fights for the title next that’s not me.”

Following Adesanya’s loss to Sean Strickland in September, the star reported he intends to take a break from fighting. But, after UFC 297, the former champ confirmed he’s still very interested in battling Du Plessis.