UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev has disclosed his desire to engage in a sparring session with Conor McGregor, detailing an attempt that was thwarted due to travel restrictions to Ireland.
Chimaev stated that his interest was sparked after seeing a photo circulating online, reportedly showing a Chechen fighter, known to them, being knocked down by McGregor during sparring. Following this, Chimaev mentioned that associates proposed he spar with McGregor himself. He then traveled with the intention of finding McGregor, but upon arrival in Ireland, he was detained at the airport and denied entry, being sent back home. Chimaev suspects mistaken identity as the reason for his arrest. Later, he received correspondence from British authorities clarifying that he was permitted to enter the country at any point.
