Khamzat Chimaev comes clean on 'Smash' token controversy

Khamzat Chimaev explained the situation surrounding the ‘Smash’ token debacle and admitted that mistakes were made on his and his manager’s parts.

UFC welterweight Khamzat Chimaev has finally addressed the recent controversy surrounding his promotion of the 'Smash' crypto token.

The Swedish fighter came under fire after endorsing the crypto token to his followers on social media and encouraging them to buy it. However, the value of the token plummeted to the floor less than a day after Chimaev's promotion, leading to accusations that he had 'scammed' his fans.

The incident drew criticism from crypto investigators and UFC middleweight Sean Strickland, who stated on X, "I've been offered a ton of money to do this same exact thing... Crazy man you're rich and still try to scam your fans."

Now, Chimaev has spoken out to clear the air on the issue and put the people behind the 'Smash' token on notice with a chilling warning.

Khamzat Chimaev comes clean on 'Smash' token controversy

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In a recent interview, Khamzat Chimaev explained the situation surrounding the 'Smash' token debacle and admitted that mistakes were made on his and his manager's parts.

Chimaev stated, "Well, my manager... you can say acted stupidly and I also made a mistake in this crypto. I don't understand (crypto) at all, I trust my manager."

'Borz' also described how he got involved in the promotion of Smash Token. He shared that he trusted people who assured him it was a legitimate opportunity, and revealed that, "...my people said I can trust them." Following the advice of his team, he made a promotional video and advertisement, expecting to receive payment in return.

However, things took a wrong turn as the team behind the creation of the token disappeared as he further stated, "Well, these people are also lost now." But in a terrifying warning, Chimaev then confessed, "Now we are looking for them. One was found. They forced him to make a video, that it's their fault. And we will find the others too, and we will make them apologize for it."

As such, Chimaev's admission shed light on the complexities and risks associated with cryptocurrency endorsements, especially when celebrities and athletes without expertise in the field get involved. His manager, Majdi Shammas, had also released a statement following the uproar over the incident as he stated, "My apologies to Khamzat and all others of you affected by this, if I could have done anything differently."

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The MMA sphere has also been left speculating about what the future holds for Khamzat Chimaev as he has been out of action since defeating Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 in 2023. In a recent statement, 'Borz' has revealed that he has one goal in mind when he makes his return to the Octagon.

'Borz' wants the middleweight crown when he steps back into the cage

Khamzat Chimaev was scheduled to clash against Robert Whittaker at the UFC Saudi Arabia card but had to withdraw due to health complications. As such, in a recent interview with Match TV, the undefeated UFC star stated, "Most likely (my return will happen) in October in Abu Dhabi, (The opponent is) unknown so far. I would like to fight for the title. ”

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The middleweight title is currently held by Dricus Du Plessis who is set to defend it against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 in August. So, when Chimaev does return in October, there is a possibility that the 185 lbs. division may have a new champion, as such, it remains to be seen if the UFC agrees to his demands or not.

As the middleweight division continues to evolve, the MMA sphere is eager to see where 'Borz' fits into the landscape and if he'll find himself in the title picture soon. Do you think Khamzat Chimaev deserves a title shot? Why or Why not? Let us know in the comments below!

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