Khamzat Chimaev fought with likely 'broken hand' in Kamaru Usman win, thanks 'brother' Zlatan Ibrahimovic for support

Khamzat Chimaev spoke with passion and deeply felt emotion after defeating Kamaru Usman in UFC 294 at the Etihad Arena Abu Dhabi.

Chimaev, undefeated in 12 professional bouts before Saturday night's fight, had been scheduled to face Paulo Costa, but the Brazilian's injury-enforced withdrawal necessitated a switch. Usman, the former welterweight title holder, moved up a weight class in order to face Chimaev in Costa's place.

After a dominant start from Chimaev, Usman forced his way back into the fight and the result was ultimately a split decision in favour of Chimaev.

In the immediate aftermath of the fight, the Russian was emotional.

He spoke of the impact that UFC has had on his life.

Asked what it would mean to get a title fight with middleweight champion Sean Strickland, Chimaev said: "I don't know what to say. I didn't come here for the titles. Guys, it's crazy. I love my job. I love these guys, and I'm happy to have my money to have food for my mum today."

In his post-fight media duties, Chimaev revealed that his inability to finish Usman in the final round may have been the result of an injury.

He explained: "I had a very strong last minute. I think I broke my hand. It was hard to wrestle and keep him down. I couldn't use my right hand. We'll see what happens. Maybe it's broken, maybe it's not. But it's f****** painful."

Asked whether he was satisfied with a win on a split decision, Chimaev complimented his opponent and was ultimately philosophical about his victory.

He said: "I don't know, I don't care. I win. You win, you lose, you make the big money."

Russian-born Chimaev emigrated to Sweden as a teenager and made headlines back in June when he met with Swedish football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic while training.

The former footballer was in the crowd in Abu Dhabi, and Chimaev gave him a shout-out.

He said: "Zlatan thank you, brother you came to support me."

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