Khamzat Chimaev is an elite mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler with an estimated net worth of $4 million.
Competing in the UFC’s middleweight division, Chimaev has become one of the most dominant and marketable fighters in the promotion thanks to his undefeated run, explosive fighting style, and rapid rise to stardom.
He is also a highly accomplished wrestler, having won multiple gold medals at the Swedish National Championships.
As of late 2024, Chimaev ranked among the top UFC middleweights, and by mid-2025, he was listed in the top 15 pound-for-pound fighters worldwide.
Career Earnings And Biggest UFC Payouts
Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC earnings have skyrocketed since his debut in 2020. Early in his career, he earned between $80,000 and $115,000 per fight, boosted by frequent $50,000 Performance of the Night bonuses.
His paychecks grew rapidly:
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$150,000–$200,000 for bouts against Gerald Meerschaert and Li Jingliang
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Over $1 million at UFC 279 for defeating Kevin Holland
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Approximately $2.35 million for his win over Kamaru Usman at UFC 294
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Around $1.05 million for defeating Robert Whittaker at UFC 308
Overall, Chimaev’s total UFC career earnings are estimated between $3.6 million and $4.3 million, placing him among the highest-paid rising stars in MMA.
Early Life And Background
Khamzat Khizarovich Chimaev was born on May 1, 1994, in Chechnya, Russia. He began wrestling at just five years old and showed early promise, winning medals at the junior national level.
In 2013, he moved to Sweden with his mother, where he continued to develop as a wrestler.
Although he lived in Sweden for many years, Chimaev later relocated to the United Arab Emirates, where he became a citizen in 2025.
Wrestling And MMA Career
While in Sweden, Chimaev established himself as one of the country’s best wrestlers, winning three Swedish National Championships in freestyle wrestling. He also competed in judo and combat sambo before transitioning to MMA.
Chimaev turned professional in 2018 and quickly built an undefeated record across several promotions, including Brave Combat Federation.
His dominant performances earned him a UFC contract, where he made history in 2020 by winning three fights in just 66 days, each with a bonus.
Despite a serious COVID-19 illness that briefly sidelined him, Chimaev returned stronger than ever, defeating top contenders such as Gilbert Burns, Kevin Holland, Kamaru Usman, and Robert Whittaker.
Personal Life
Chimaev bears a facial scar from a childhood accident and has dealt with long-term breathing issues. He openly discussed the physical and emotional toll of COVID-19, which nearly ended his career.
He is married and maintains close ties to Chechnya. Chimaev is also known for his friendships with prominent figures from the region and for training young fighters.
Awards And Achievements
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UFC Newcomer of the Year (2020)
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Multiple Performance of the Night awards
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Fight of the Night (vs. Gilbert Burns, 2022)
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Submission of the Year (vs. Robert Whittaker, 2024)
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Fan-voted UFC Honors winner
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Khamzat Chimaev make his money?
He earns primarily from UFC fight purses, performance bonuses, PPV shares, and sponsorships.
What was Khamzat Chimaev’s biggest payday?
His biggest payout came at UFC 294, where he reportedly earned over $2.3 million against Kamaru Usman.
Is Khamzat Chimaev still undefeated?
Yes, as of 2025, Khamzat Chimaev remains undefeated in professional MMA.