Khamzat Chimaev reacts to rumored Nassourdine Imavov vs. Sean Strickland title fight

Khamzat Chimaev has signaled he is unbothered by rumors that UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland will defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov in December rather than grant Chimaev an immediate rematch. Chimaev, who lost his belt to Strickland in their recent fight, has made clear his priority is staying active and fighting frequently—a goal he says a Strickland-Imavov matchup would serve.

Imavov has earned his shot through an impressive six-fight unbeaten streak at 185 pounds that includes a knockout victory over former champion Israel Adesanya, plus wins over Caio Borralho and Brendan Allen. The only blemish on his recent record came in 2023 when he dropped a decision to Strickland on short notice. His lengthy wait for a title opportunity—roughly two years—makes the matchup logical from the UFC's perspective.

Strickland has been recovering from injuries sustained in his victory over Chimaev and appears set to compete before year's end if the Imavov fight materializes. In the meantime, Chimaev has expressed interest in facing Borralho, another top-10 middleweight angling for a title shot, as a way to remain competitive while waiting for his next championship opportunity.

Chimaev remains focused on his larger goal: clearing out the middleweight division entirely. He is scheduled to face former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley in the main event of RAF Moscow on Saturday in Russia, a bout that will keep him sharp while the Strickland-Imavov situation develops.