Khamzat Chimaev is Ruled Out of UFC on ABC 6 Main Event, Robert Whittaker will Fight.....

The UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia has encountered a setback. Khamzat Chimaev, the undefeated rising star, has been forced to withdraw from the main event against former champion Robert Whittaker due to illness. As a result, Ikram Aliskerov steps in as the new headliner for UFC on ABC 6.

Khamzat Chimaev’s Withdrawal

Chimaev (13-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) was slated to face Whittaker (25-7 MMA, 16-5 UFC) in a middleweight title eliminator bout. However, he fell ill and had to pull out of the June 22 matchup at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh. His absence leaves fans disappointed, as he had been on a record-setting streak since his UFC debut in 2020.

Aliskerov Takes Center Stage

Replacing Khamzat Chimaev is Ikram Aliskerov (17-1 MMA, 2-0 UFC), one of Chimaev’s former opponents. Aliskerov was initially scheduled to fight Antonio Trocoli in the UFC on ESPN 58 co-main event but will now step up to face Whittaker. The sudden change in opponents adds intrigue to the event, as Aliskerov aims to make the most of this unexpected opportunity.

Khamzat Chimaev – OUT
Ikram Aliskerov – IN#UFCSaudiArabia has itself a NEW MAIN EVENT 🚨@RiyadhSeason | #RiyadhSeason pic.twitter.com/fOrtw2idYs
— UFC (@ufc) June 13, 2024

Whittaker’s Readiness

Whittaker, a former champion, expressed his willingness to accept a replacement opponent. He posted on social media , declaring that he’s ready for “anyone, anywhere, anytime.” His determination remains unwavering despite the last-minute switch.