Chimaev Reacts To Rumored Strickland Vs. Imavov Title Fight

Khamzat Chimaev (15-1) says he is not concerned by rumors that UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland could defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov in December rather than rematching him.

Chimaev said he is more focused on staying active than waiting for one specific matchup.

“No, there’s no surprise. How long has Imavov been waiting now? Probably around two years. He’s already the contender. Whoever wins, we’ll take him,” Chimaev said.

Imavov is unbeaten in his last six fights, with wins over Israel Adesanya, Caio Borralho and Brendan Allen among them. His last loss came against Strickland on short notice in 2023.

Chimaev, who lost the middleweight title to Strickland in May, has also expressed interest in facing other leading contenders if an immediate rematch does not materialize, including Borralho.

“Until we break everybody at 185, I’m not going anywhere,” Chimaev said.

Before returning to the UFC, Chimaev is scheduled to face former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley in the RAF Moscow main event on Saturday, September 5.