MMA analyst and former fighter Chael Sonnen is growing increasingly frustrated over Khamzat Chimaev’s stalled UFC title shot. Despite his dominant first-round submission victory over ex-champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, Chimaev (14-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) has yet to be scheduled for a championship bout against middleweight king Dricus Du Plessis (23-2 MMA, 9-0 UFC).
Du Plessis successfully defended his title in a rematch against Sean Strickland at UFC 312, but he previously admitted that Chimaev was the opponent he really wanted. Many UFC fans and analysts assumed that the fight was inevitable. Yet months have passed, and no official announcement has been made. Sonnen, known for his outspoken takes, is demanding answers.
Chael Sonnen Calls Out UFC’s Lack of Action
Chael Sonnen, never one to hold back, voiced his frustration during an interview with Submission Radio. According to him, Chimaev was once a media phenomenon, drawing millions of views for the simplest activities—whether it was grocery shopping or driving with Darren Till.
“He was a media darling like only two others before him: Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey,” Sonnen stated. “The world couldn’t get enough of him. He was fighting every other week, jumping between weight classes, and taking on all comers. Now? Silence. You can’t even get an interview with the guy, and no one’s sure where he even is.”
Sonnen suggested that powerful figures behind the scenes may be influencing the delay, though he stopped short of naming names. “DDP wants to know when it’s happening. The division acknowledges Chimaev has earned it, but we’re still waiting.”
The Impact on the Middleweight Division
Sonnen believes the delay is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a problem for the entire weight class.
“It’s getting annoying,” he admitted. “When a non-champion holds up the division, we have a serious issue. Fighters need clarity. If you leave contenders in limbo, you kill their motivation.”
He also pointed out that uncertainty affects more than just Chimaev and Du Plessis—it impacts all the other fighters in the division who are waiting for a shot at the belt. With no fight officially scheduled, challengers like Jared Cannonier, Israel Adesanya, and Sean Strickland are left guessing when their next opportunities might arise.
Why the Delay? Speculation and Theories
There are multiple theories as to why the UFC hasn’t booked the fight yet. Some believe Chimaev is dealing with undisclosed health issues, while others speculate that visa complications or contract negotiations are holding things up. Another possibility is that the UFC is waiting for the perfect event to maximize the fight’s financial potential.
Chimaev’s long absence from media appearances and interviews has only fueled speculation. Previously, he was one of the most active fighters in terms of social media presence and fan engagement. Now, his silence has raised questions about what is really happening behind the scenes.
What’s Next for Chimaev?
For now, the waiting game continues. If the UFC does not announce the fight soon, there is a possibility that another contender could leapfrog Chimaev in the rankings. Sonnen warned that too much uncertainty could damage Chimaev’s momentum and star power.
“Fans forget fast,” Sonnen said. “The UFC thrives on activity. If you’re not fighting, people move on.”
With UFC fans and fighters alike eager to see Chimaev’s next move, the pressure is mounting on the organization to make an official announcement. Whether Chimaev remains in the shadows or finally gets his long-awaited title shot remains to be seen.
