After a tumultuous few months that have included a COVID-19 diagnosis and the suggestion of retirement, Khamzat Chimaev is reportedly set to make his UFC return against Li Jingliang later this year.
The news was first reported by Raphael Marinho of Combate.
Should it go forward, Chimaev vs. Li will be a welterweight fight taking place at UFC 267 in October.
Chimaev made a serious impression in his last fight, when he knocked out Geralt Meerschaert with his first punch in September. He was scheduled to fight Leon Edwards back in March, but had to withdraw due to lingering problems following his bout of COVID-19. Though his health problems initially seemed to be pushing him to retire, he later decided to come back and try to expand upon his 9-0 professional record.
Li has fought for the UFC since 2014 and has won four of his five most recent fights. He most recently fought Santiago Ponzinibbio in January, winning with a first-round knockout.
UFC 267 will take place in Abu Dhabi on October 30, 2021.
