The highly anticipated UFC 294 event hit a major setback when the much-awaited Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira fight was canceled due to Oliveira’s eyebrow cut injury. Following that, Paulo Costa’s withdrawal due to arm surgery was also confirmed. Now, Khamzat Chimaev is set to face Kamaru Usman, the former UFC welterweight champion, in the co-main event, marking a significant change in the event lineup as confirmed by Dana White.
UFC 294- Khamzat Chimaev vs Kamaru Usman Fight Details
Kamaru Usman claimed the UFC welterweight title in 2019 at UFC 235 by defeating Tyron Woodley. He successfully defended the title five times before losing to Leon Edwards at UFC 278 in 2022. Usman faced Edwards again at UFC 286 in March but suffered another loss. Usman’s record stands at 20 wins, 3 losses, and no draws.
On the other hand, Khamzat Chimaev, is a rising star in the sport, boasting an undefeated professional MMA record of 12-0. His latest fight was in September 2022 at UFC 279, where he defeated Kevin Holland via submission. Notably, Chimaev has finished six of his seven fights by stoppages.
We anticipate Kamaru Usman will dominate the upcoming fight against Khamzat Chimaev. As the fight approaches, the excitement continues to intensify.
Stories On UFC 294 You Must Read:
- Islam Makhachev Lauds Volkanovski for Accepting Fight, but Urges No Post-loss Excuses
- Despite Seen as Fight of the Year, Islam Makhachev vs Charles Oliveira Is Not Happening
In the betting odds, Khamzat Chimaev is favored at -275, while Kamaru Usman stands at +225.
Due to Paulo Costa’s injury, Khamzat Chimaev will face former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman in a three-round fight on October 21.
This fight signifies Usman’s first appearance in the middleweight category, and the victor is expected to contend for the title against Sean Strickland.
Make sure to catch UFC 294 featuring Kamaru Usman vs Khamzat Chimaev, broadcasting live from Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, October 21, 2023.
Editors pick
