The UFC 319 middleweight title clash between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis is one of the most anticipated fights of the year, not just for what’s at stake in the octagon, but for what it could mean for the future of one of MMA’s most enigmatic stars. Khamzat Chimaev, once considered the UFC’s most unstoppable force, now faces a moment of truth. And if he falls short against the champion Dricus du Plessis, the question must be asked: Could this be the end of Chimaev’s career?

The idea of Chimaev retiring may sound extreme, especially for a fighter who is still in his prime at 30 years old. But when looking closely at the context, history, and personal dynamics surrounding Chimaev’s UFC journey, retirement may not be as far-fetched as it appears.

The Meteoric Rise of Chimaev

When Khamzat Chimaev burst onto the UFC scene in 2020, the world took notice. His dominance was immediate and brutal—winning fights with such ease that some compared his emergence to that of Khabib Nurmagomedov. Chimaev won his first four UFC bouts in emphatic fashion, absorbing just two significant strikes while completely overwhelming his opponents.

Fans and analysts quickly hailed him as the future of both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. He was charismatic, aggressive, undefeated, and already calling for the biggest names in the sport. Dana White labeled him “one of the scariest guys” he’d ever seen.

But after a COVID-19 diagnosis in late 2020 nearly ended his career—and led to a temporary retirement announcement—Chimaev’s invincibility began to erode, not in the cage but outside of it.

Health Issues and Inactivity

Since 2021, Chimaev’s career has been defined more by delays than domination. Illness, visa problems, and matchmaking difficulties have limited him to just a handful of fights over nearly four years. While his win over Gilbert Burns in 2022 was a Fight of the Year candidate and proved he could go three rounds against elite competition, his activity has been sporadic at best.

The logistical and physical obstacles Chimaev has faced have raised concerns about his long-term trajectory. He has fought just once at middleweight in the UFC—against Kamaru Usman, a career welterweight who moved up on short notice. Chimaev won that bout by decision but looked human, raising questions about how he would fare against natural 185ers like Dricus du Plessis.

UFC 319: The Make-Or-Break Moment

Now, heading into UFC 319, Khamzat Chimaev is facing the biggest challenge of his career. Du Plessis, the reigning champion, is strong, durable, awkward, and confident—everything Chimaev has yet to truly face in a middleweight contender. Du Plessis is not just fighting to defend his belt; he’s fighting to derail the Chimaev hype train once and for all.

If Chimaev loses, the ramifications could be massive. Not just for the title picture—but for Chimaev’s entire future.

Could Retirement Really Happen?

While Chimaev has not explicitly stated he would retire if he loses, there are several compelling reasons why the idea is on the table:

1. Psychological Toll:
Chimaev has been open about his past struggles with motivation and mental health, especially during his COVID recovery. He even briefly announced his retirement in 2021 via Instagram, citing health complications. Though he later reversed that decision, the episode proved that retirement was not outside his mindset.

A loss in a title fight, especially one that could shatter his mystique, might push him to reassess his journey.

2. Legacy Concerns:
Chimaev has often spoken of legacy. He doesn’t just want to win fights—he wants to dominate and be remembered as one of the greatest to ever enter the octagon. A decisive loss to du Plessis could severely damage that aura. For someone who built his reputation on invincibility, the psychological impact of a clean defeat may outweigh the incentive to continue.

3. Physical Uncertainty:
His history of lingering health issues, especially related to lung function after COVID, could become more problematic in a long, grueling title fight. If Chimaev finds himself unable to keep up the pace, or if he suffers a physical setback, he might conclude that his body can no longer perform at the elite level he demands of himself.

4. Political and Religious Commitments:
Chimaev’s identity as a proud Chechen-Muslim plays a significant role in his life. He’s previously discussed dedicating more time to faith, family, and service. If he feels his mission in the UFC has been fulfilled or derailed, he could very well decide to walk away and focus on other aspects of life.

What Happens If He Wins?

Of course, all speculation vanishes if Chimaev beats du Plessis and claims the UFC middleweight championship. Such a victory would silence critics, restore his aura, and potentially launch a new golden era for the Chechen-Swedish star. Future fights with Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, or even a return to welterweight for a super fight would all be on the table.

But that only highlights how high the stakes truly are.

The UFC’s Perspective

From the UFC’s point of view, Chimaev remains a commercial and promotional asset. He has fans from Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and beyond. A loss may dent his drawing power, but his charisma and unpredictability ensure there’s still business to be done.

Still, the UFC will be watching closely. If Chimaev loses convincingly and hints at walking away again, the company may have to start preparing for life without one of its most marketable names.

Final Thoughts

Khamzat Chimaev has always walked a fine line between brilliance and chaos. He’s an elite fighter, but his career has been anything but conventional. The outcome of UFC 319 could determine not just the middleweight pecking order—but whether Chimaev will continue fighting at all.

If he wins, the legend grows. If he loses, don’t be shocked if he disappears from the octagon—this time, for good.