Khamzat Chimaev names 4 UFC targets, Caio Borralho answers the call

Khamzat Chimaev is plotting his return to the UFC middleweight title picture after a shock May loss to Sean Strickland, one of the biggest upsets in recent UFC history. Chimaev, a massive favorite heading into his title defense, struggled with fatigue as early as the second round and was out-struck by Strickland over fifteen minutes, suffering a decision defeat that dropped his record to 15-1.

After months of calling for an immediate rematch with Strickland, Chimaev has broadened his sights. The Chechen took to social media to name four potential opponents: Strickland himself, Dricus du Plessis, Nassourdine Imavov, and Caio Borralho. The callout drew an immediate response from Borralho, who expressed enthusiasm for the matchup and suggested two high-profile venues and dates: Madison Square Garden in New York in November, or the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in December.

Borralho enters the conversation as an 8-1 UFC fighter since winning his contract on Dana White's Contender Series. His only promotional loss came to Imavov. Du Plessis, though he owns two wins over Strickland, was dominated by Chimaev in their previous fight last year. Imavov is widely seen as the most deserving contender but carries a loss to Strickland from before the champion claimed gold.

With Strickland recovering from his title run, the middleweight division appears unsettled. Chimaev's willingness to take on any of these names signals his intent to reclaim title contention, while Borralho's quick acceptance suggests the Brazilian sees his opening.