Chimaev Volunteers As Rumored Title-Fight Backup

Khamzat Chimaev (15-1) is volunteering to be the backup option should either Sean Strickland (31-7) or Nassourdine Imavov (17-4) withdraw from their rumored UFC middleweight championship fight.

The UFC’s No.1-ranked middleweight, Chimaev has been angling for a prominent fight as he seeks a swift return to the Octagon following losing the 185-pound belt to Strickland by split decision on May 9.

Earlier this month, Chimaev stated  he was ready to face Strickland, Dricus du Plessis, Caio Borralho, or Imavov, however he said the UFC informed him that Borralho and Du Plessis are both injured, narrowing his options. Reports of a title fight between Strickland and Imavov on December 12 reduce Chimaev’s options to zero so he’s taking the opportunity to at least position himself as the back-up should the fight be announced.

“Maybe Imavov and Strickland won’t fight, and I’ll be ready [to step in],” Chimaev said.

Chimaev has stayed sharp by competing in two Real American Freestyle matches, winning both by pinfall. On June 13, he scored a lightning-quick win over Dillon Danis, and on September 6 he pinned Tyron Woodley in the first round as well.. He returns to the mats on September 18, taking on MMA rival Gilbert Burns in a catchweight fight. Chimaev and Burns fought in the Octagon in Apri 2022 with Khamzat winning by unanimous decision.