UFC star Khamzat Chimaev ‘VIOLENTLY ILL’ in hospital as fans fear undefeated star may never fight again

UFC star Khamzat Chimaev has been hospitalised with an unknown illness.

The Russian wrecking machine was due to return to the octagon next weekend in the main event of UFC on ABC 6 in Saudi Arabia.

But an unknown illness has forced the Chechen clubber to withdraw from his eagerly-anticipated middleweight showdown with former champion Robert Whittaker.

A worrying picture of a "violently ill" Chimaev laid up on a hospital bed was shared on social media by his team-mates Mukhammad Erskirkhanov and Guram Kuteladze.

UFC lightweight Kuteladze wrote: “Behind every hardship there is relief.”

Chimaev's latest medical setback has MMA fans fearing for his fighting future, with one writing on X: "He's never going to be the same."

Another said: "It's very unfortunate. It's apparent COVID-19 did a number on his body. Best wishes to Chimaev."

And another said: "Khamzat is an unbelievable talent, I hope he's okay."

One remarked: "His health scares are concerning."

Another chimed in: "Honestly one of the saddest things ever."

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

Chimaev, 30, has yet to comment on his latest health scare, although his manager Majdi Shammas has spoken on his behalf.

He wrote: “It’s with great disappointment announced that Khamzat Chimaev (13-0) has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled fight against #3 ranked Robert Whittaker on June 22nd in Riyadh.

"He has been in and out of hospitals several times.

"The condition has been kept within the team, since everyone has been absolutely committed to finding a solution.

“Although all available options have been thoroughly considered, it has now come to a point where the team has mutually agreed that it is not possible to carry on like this.

"Stepping into the cage not properly prepared against such a formidable opponent as Robert is unfortunately impossible.

“This is a devastating turn of events for Khamzat, his coaches, training partners and other members of the team.

"Headlining UFC’s first-ever visit to Saudi Arabia was a great honour and something that was very much looked forward to.

“Although the cause is far beyond anyone’s control, a sincere apology is extended to the UFC, Dana White, Mick Maynard, Sean Shelby, Hunter Campbell His Highness Turki Alalshikh, Robert Whittaker and his team.

"And most importantly to the fans who were looking forward to the bout.

“But everything happens for a reason and God has his own plans, the goals remain the same.

“The persistent illness that Khamzat has been battling for major parts of training camp could not be cured in time.

"Khamzat and team will now get to the bottom of the cause of the issues, and he will come back even stronger.

“This is unfortunately a part of the fight game and as soon as Khamzat is healthy, his much-anticipated return to the Octagon will be immediately rescheduled.”

Chimaev hasn't fought since his decision victory over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 last October.

A win over Whittaker would have earned him a crack at the middleweight title, which champion Dricus Du Plessis is set to defend against Israel Adesanya later this year.