UFC President Dana White has disclosed that Khamzat Chimaev is eager for a second fight with Sean Strickland. However, the UFC has not yet confirmed if they will grant Chimaev an immediate title rematch.
Initially, the Chechen-born Emirati fighter intended to move up to the light heavyweight division after defeating Strickland at UFC 328. Nevertheless, the American fighter managed to dethrone “Borz” via a split decision. Now, Chimaev is keen on reclaiming the middleweight championship before pursuing success in multiple weight classes.
Following his title defeat, Chimaev informed White that he wished to compete at 205 pounds. However, he is now strongly advocating for a rematch with “Tarzan,” promising a more decisive outcome this time, stating that “somebody has to die” in the second encounter.
In a conversation with Bret Boone, Dana White commented on Chimaev’s request:
“Khamzat right now is asking for the rematch with Strickland. Thatโs what he wants. We donโt know what we are going to do yet.”
After becoming a two-time UFC middleweight champion, Strickland indicated that Chimaev would need to secure a few victories before earning another shot at the title. White further added during the same interview:
“Strickland will fight anybody.”
Nassourdine Imavov Opposes Immediate Sean Strickland vs. Khamzat Chimaev Rematch
Nassourdine Imavov, the number 3 contender in the UFC middleweight division and currently on a five-fight winning streak, has been patiently awaiting a title opportunity. Following Khamzat Chimaev’s loss, it appeared that Imavov would finally get his chance to contend for the belt and potentially face Strickland again.
However, with Chimaev persistently requesting an immediate title rematch, the UFC might consider booking the fight again, forcing “The Sniper” to endure further waiting. Imavov, 30, is against this scenario and is urging the matchmakers to uphold their prior commitments. Imavov posted on X:
“Plenty of talk around the championship fight lately. I believe everyone will stand on what they said #hunter @Mickmaynard2 #nohappyending @SStricklandMMA.”
