Chael Sonnen Questions Delays in Chimaev vs. Du Plessis Title Fight

Chael Sonnen criticizes UFC for the lack of clarity surrounding Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis. Why is the fight not booked yet?

Sonnen voices frustration over Khamzat Chimaev’s stalled title shot

Chael Sonnen is growing increasingly frustrated with the UFC’s handling of Khamzat Chimaev. The former fighter and current analyst is tired of hearing endless talk about a title fight between Chimaev and UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis without any action. “Book the fight or tell us why it’s not happening,” Sonnen demands.

Chimaev’s rise: From hype machine to question mark

Khamzat Chimaev remains one of the most talked-about and polarizing figures in the UFC. Still undefeated with a professional record of 14-0, Chimaev has dominated most of his opponents, including top-tier fighters like Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman. His most recent bout saw him defeat Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 on October 26, 2024, in a first-round submission that left little doubt about his readiness for a title shot.

Du Plessis, who captured the middleweight title by defeating Sean Strickland via split decision at UFC 312 in February 2025, has already indicated his interest in defending his belt against Chimaev. Even UFC President Dana White has backed this matchup, publicly stating that Chimaev is “next in line.”

Yet, there’s no official date. No venue. No posters. Just silence.

Sonnen compares Chimaev to McGregor and Rousey

Sonnen, a UFC Hall of Famer known for his blunt commentary, voiced his concerns in a recent interview with Submission Radio:

“He was a media star like only two people before him – Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey. The third biggest media star in our industry,” Sonnen said.

But Sonnen believes something has shifted. From a man constantly in the spotlight, Chimaev has all but disappeared.

“Now it’s the exact opposite. You can’t get an interview with him. We used to see him shopping at grocery stores, now we’re not even sure what country he lives in. It’s a very strange thing,” Sonnen added.

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What’s stopping the UFC from booking Chimaev vs. Du Plessis?

There are several factors potentially delaying this high-profile matchup:

• Visa issues: Chimaev, originally from Chechnya and fighting out of Sweden and the UAE, has faced visa problems that limit his ability to fight in the U.S. However, Dana White recently stated that those issues are “being handled” and shouldn’t prevent future bookings.
• Injury rumors: There have been quiet whispers within the MMA community about Chimaev possibly nursing an injury after the Whittaker bout, though nothing has been confirmed by UFC officials or his team.
• Uncertainty within the middleweight division: Fighters like Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland remain in the conversation, and the UFC may be weighing their options to determine the most lucrative match-up.
• Timing and location: With multiple international events coming up, including rumored cards in Saudi Arabia and South Africa, logistical planning might be slowing the process.

Sonnen calls out UFC brass: “Show your cards”

In the same interview, Sonnen took a direct shot at UFC executives for their lack of transparency:

“When? Get out your calendar. You know your dates, you know your arena. And even if it’s a secret to us regular people, you know where you can get him to travel. Do you have a damn arena in one of these places or not? If not, show your cards. If you do, book the fight.”

He’s not alone in his frustration. UFC fans across the globe are calling for clarity. Social media is filled with speculation, ranging from injuries to contract issues to behind-the-scenes drama.

Could we see Chimaev vs. Du Plessis in Saudi Arabia?

There are credible rumors that UFC is planning a major pay-per-view event in Saudi Arabia in June 2025. According to MMA Fighting, the promotion wants a blockbuster card to continue its expansion into the Middle East. If so, a fight between Chimaev – a Muslim fighter with massive popularity in the region – and du Plessis could be the headline event.

Nothing has been confirmed, but the stars appear to be aligning.

Summary and Call to Action

Chael Sonnen has raised a valid point: why hasn’t the UFC booked Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis yet? With fan interest at an all-time high, both fighters seemingly on board, and Dana White giving the green light, there’s little reason for delay. Is the UFC planning something big behind the scenes, or is Chimaev stuck in limbo?

Stay tuned to MMAnytt.se for all the latest updates on this developing story.