SAD NEWS: Prayers for Khamzat Chimaev’s Coach Salim Noutsalkhanov Ahead of UFC 319

At 2:45 PM +07 on Sunday, August 3, 2025, a wave of concern has swept through the MMA community following a troubling announcement regarding Salim Noutsalkhanov, the esteemed coach of UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev. As Chimaev prepares for his highly anticipated title fight against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 on August 16 at the United Center in Chicago, the sudden health scare surrounding Noutsalkhanov has left fans and fighters alike praying for his recovery. The news, which broke earlier today via an unverified social media post from a close associate, has sparked widespread worry, with #PrayForSalim trending alongside concerns about Chimaev’s readiness for the bout. The uncertainty surrounding his coach’s condition adds a layer of tension to an already high-stakes moment in Chimaev’s career.

The Concerning Announcement

The alarm was raised at approximately 1:30 PM +07 when a cryptic message appeared on an Instagram account linked to a member of Chimaev’s training circle, stating, “Please keep Salim in your prayers. Health is fragile.” No official details have been released by Chimaev’s camp or the UFC, but the post, accompanied by a photo of Noutsalkhanov supervising a training session, hinted at a serious medical issue. Noutsalkhanov, a legendary Russian wrestling coach known for training Olympic champion Buvaisar Saitiev, has been instrumental in Chimaev’s recent resurgence, guiding him through a revamped training regimen to address past health struggles. The lack of clarity has fueled speculation, with some fans on social media suggesting a possible hospitalization, though no evidence confirms this.

Chimaev, who reunited with Noutsalkhanov ahead of his UFC 308 victory over Robert Whittaker in October 2024, has credited his coach with helping him balance intense workouts with necessary recovery, a shift that prevented previous illnesses. The timing of this announcement, just 13 days before UFC 319, has amplified fears that Chimaev’s preparation could be disrupted, especially given his history of fight cancellations due to health setbacks.

Fan Reactions and Worries

The MMA community has rallied around Noutsalkhanov, with fans expressing their support online. Posts on X reflect a mix of hope and anxiety, with one user writing, “Praying for Coach Salim—Khamzat needs him for this fight!” Another fan voiced concern, “If Salim’s out, does Khamzat even step into the Octagon? This is bad news.” The uncertainty has reignited debates about Chimaev’s reliability, with some recalling his six prior fight withdrawals, often linked to his fragile immune system. Others, however, remain optimistic, pointing to Chimaev’s recent training footage, which shows him in peak condition alongside Noutsalkhanov’s guidance.

The potential impact on UFC 319 has also drawn attention. With Chimaev (14-0) facing champion Du Plessis (23-2) in a clash billed as a battle of unorthodox styles, fans are torn between supporting Noutsalkhanov’s recovery and worrying about the fight’s fate. Backup fighter Caio Borralho’s readiness adds to the tension, with some speculating the UFC might need to activate him if Chimaev’s camp falters.

The Context of Noutsalkhanov’s Role

Salim Noutsalkhanov’s influence on Chimaev cannot be overstated. After years of overtraining at Allstars Gym in Sweden led to multiple hospitalizations—most notably three times in three weeks in 2023—Chimaev turned to Noutsalkhanov to overhaul his approach. In a 2024 interview, Chimaev explained, “They now let me rest and recover properly. I used to train until I was done, but that landed me in the hospital.” Noutsalkhanov’s expertise helped Chimaev stabilize his health, culminating in his dominant first-round finish of Whittaker. This success positioned him for the UFC 319 title shot, making Noutsalkhanov’s current condition a critical concern.

Noutsalkhanov’s reputation as a coach to wrestling legends adds weight to the situation. His potential absence could force Chimaev to rely on other trainers, such as conditioning coach Sam Calavitta, though none match Noutsalkhanov’s personal connection or wrestling acumen. Chimaev’s camp has remained silent, leaving fans to wonder if Noutsalkhanov’s health scare will derail the Chechen fighter’s momentum.

Speculation and UFC Implications

Without official confirmation, theories abound. Some suggest Noutsalkhanov may have suffered a sudden illness during Chimaev’s camp in Kislovodsk, Russia, where recent training videos with Olympic wrestler Abdulrashid Sadulaev were filmed. Others speculate it could be a pre-existing condition exacerbated by the rigors of coaching. The UFC has not commented, but the promotion’s history of adjusting cards—such as UFC 311’s backup plan—suggests preparedness for any scenario. Du Plessis, meanwhile, has stayed focused, posting training updates that mock Chimaev’s past pullouts, unaware of the latest development.

The middleweight division’s future hangs in the balance. If Chimaev wins but Noutsalkhanov’s absence persists, analysts like Din Thomas warn of a “disaster” due to Chimaev’s inconsistent schedule. Conversely, a loss or withdrawal could shift the title scene to contenders like Reinier de Ridder, who recently edged Whittaker.

What Lies Ahead

As of 2:45 PM +07, the MMA world awaits clarity. Chimaev’s next move—whether to proceed with alternate coaching or postpone—will depend on Noutsalkhanov’s condition. The UFC may issue a statement soon, especially if the fight’s main event is at risk. For now, prayers for Noutsalkhanov dominate, with fans hoping his recovery allows him to guide Chimaev to what could be a defining moment. The outcome of this health crisis could reshape UFC 319 and Chimaev’s legacy, leaving the sport in a state of anxious anticipation.