Five UFC fighters who Khamzat Chimaev has feuded with
Before the UFC 279 press conference, Khamzat Chimaev took part in a backstage scuffle that ensued involving a multitude of fighters. According to UFC President Dana White, the promotion didn't hire enough security to restrain the fighters responsible for the brawl. While no one was seriously injured or indeed hurt at all, it did lead to the cancelation of the pre-fight press conference.
There was likely a fear that without enough security guards to keep the fighters separate in the event of tempers flaring, a vitriolic comment made during the press conference might anger one of the fighters, escalating into another physical altercation. Multiple reports indicated that the scuffle began when Khamzat Chimaev and Kevin Holland crossed paths. Holland is said to have commented on shaving Chimaev's beard, leading 'Borz' to reportedly kick him.
While cooler heads allegedly prevailed, it hardly lasted once Nate Diaz and his entourage arrived, leading to a clash between Chimaev and Diaz's two groups. This is not the first time Khamzat Chimaev has had issues with other fighters. So in light of recent events, this list outlines 5 UFC fighters, past and present, with whom Khamzat Chimaev has had issues.
#5. Gerald Meerschaert
Khamzat Chimaev is a rare breed of fighter whose frame enables him to compete in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. His last bout in the 185 lbs weight class was against MMA veteran Gerald Meerschaert. The two were booked to lock horns at UFC Fight Night 178. However, while the matchup was still little more than a possibility in the rumor mill, Meerschaert issued a cold warning to his then potential foe.
#UFCVegas11Well that was awkward 😬
Khamzat Chimaev and Gerald Meerschaert exchange words at the press conference ahead of their fight on Saturday 👀 #UFCVegas11 https://t.co/Z2AajRHkfP
In Meerschaert's words, 'Borz' would not exit their bout physically capable of taking part in a subsequent fight. Chimaev did not take kindly to his words. Once both men were booked into a matchup, the Chechen phenom reportedly confronted the American in a hotel hallway before the bout, warning him not to talk too much. According to Meerschaert, Khamzat Chimaev was flanked by an entourage that he used to try and intimidate him.
At the pre-fight press conference, both men jawed at each other. Alas, their fight lasted only 17 seconds, ending with a thunderous KO win in Khamzat Chimaev's favor. Since the devastating loss, Gerald Meerschaert has been adamant about earning a rematch, citing that his desire is both competitive and due to a genuine dislike for 'Borz'.