UFC star Khamzat Chimaev had issues with vomiting and fainting while trying to lose weight in preparation for his fight against Nate Diaz.
Chimaev (28), missed the welterweight limit of seven-and-a half pounds
Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter, was obese
Nate Diaz fought Tony Ferguson instead
He had to be 171lbs, with Diaz successfully weighing the correct amount. However, the Swedish fighter weighed in at 178.5lbs.
The fight was called off, and Diaz faced Tony Ferguson instead at UFC 279
Andreas Michael, Chimaev’s coach, has explained why his fighter failed to make the weight cut. He said that he had a difficult start to training camp which led him to lose his fight.
Michael said to The MMA Hour, "We started the camp heavy.
"That was also the problem. We were offered to fight Nate Diaz, but it was in August. He was very heavy, so it was too early.
"Then, they moved it 10 more days up. I think we started to load this camp too heavily.
"We could have been more disciplined and kept our weight at a manageable level. It was close to the one he is training at and going to camp.
"We can come up with a variety of excuses and reasons. Khamzat is a great fighter, and I love him to the death.
"But, what I am saying is that it was completely unprofessional for us not to lose weight.
"Anyone who does not lose weight is completely unprofessional. Nate's team deserves my [apologies]. Both of us should have gained weight. There are no excuses."
Micheal, the night before the weigh ins, expressed his frustration at the weight loss efforts on Borz.
He stated that he was experiencing muscle spasms and shaking, as well as vomiting. He was passing out when he got up. "I was concerned about him."
Chimaev will not be able to lose weight and has been criticised by Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov and others. However, he made a decision to preserve his health.
