Cristiano Ronaldo tells UFC fighter Khamzat Chimaev: 'Smash your opponent'
Ronaldo sends message of support to Chimaev ahead of UFC 279
Portuguese forward urges Swedish fighter to 'make history' in upcoming bout
Cristiano Ronaldo has sent a message of support to UFC fighter Khamzat Chimaev ahead of his upcoming bout at UFC 279.
Chimaev, who is undefeated in his professional MMA career, will face Nate Diaz in the main event of UFC 279 on September 10.
In a message posted on Instagram, Ronaldo told Chimaev: "I'm a big fan of yours. I've been watching your fights and I'm impressed by your skills and your determination.
"I know you're going to fight Nate Diaz at UFC 279. He's a tough opponent, but I believe in you. You have the skills and the heart to win this fight.
"Go out there and make history. I'll be cheering for you."
Chimaev responded to Ronaldo's message, saying: "Thank you for the support, Cristiano. I'm a big fan of yours too. I'm going to go out there and do my best to make you proud."
Ronaldo's message of support is a major boost for Chimaev, who is one of the most promising young fighters in the UFC.
Chimaev is a heavy favorite to defeat Diaz, but he knows that he cannot take the American lightly.
"Nate Diaz is a legend in this sport," Chimaev said. "He's a tough fighter and he's never been knocked out.
"I'm not going to underestimate him. I'm going to go out there and give him my all."
UFC 279 takes place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 10.
The main card will also feature a welterweight bout between Jorge Masvidal and Leon Edwards, and a bantamweight bout between Cory Sandhagen and Song Yadong.