Khamzat Chimaev is looking forward to his UFC 328 title clash against Sean Strickland potentially being his final outing in the middleweight division.
Chimaev is set to make the inaugural defense of his 185-pound championship against Strickland in the main event of UFC 328 this weekend. The Chechen-born Emirati fighter intends to defeat Strickland decisively before aiming for two-division glory by moving up to light heavyweight. In a recent interview with Mike Bohn, Chimaev stated:
“I hope so [this is my last fight at middleweight]. I like to eat pizza. We will see.”
Previously, Chimaev had hinted at a move to heavier weight classes, suggesting he could compete at both light heavyweight and heavyweight. However, UFC President Dana White insisted that Chimaev must first defend his middleweight title before considering such a transition.
Newly crowned light heavyweight champion Carlos Ulberg has suffered a fractured tibia and a torn ACL, undergoing surgery and focusing on a swift return to the octagon.
In Ulberg’s absence, the UFC might consider scheduling an interim light heavyweight title fight, with the winner potentially facing Ulberg upon his return.
During the same interview, Chimaev extended his best wishes for Ulberg’s recovery but emphasized that his immediate focus remains on his upcoming fight this weekend, rather than his light heavyweight aspirations.
Khamzat Chimaev Eager to Compete in Abu Dhabi in October Post-UFC 328
In discussions with the UFC, Khamzat Chimaev revealed that he personally contacted Hunter Campbell after Sean Strickland’s victory over Anthony Hernandez earlier this year, advocating for their long-awaited matchup to be booked.
Chimaev also indicated during the same interview his desire to compete again in October, coinciding with the promotion’s planned event in Abu Dhabi, following UFC 328.
English Translation:
Khamzat Chimaev intends for his UFC 328 title defense against Sean Strickland to be his final middleweight bout. The Emirati fighter plans to move up to light heavyweight in pursuit of championship status in multiple divisions. He mentioned his enjoyment of pizza as a factor in his potential weight class preferences.
Chimaev has previously expressed interest in competing in heavier weight classes, but UFC management has prioritized him defending his current title first. With the current light heavyweight champion, Carlos Ulberg, sidelined due to injury, the UFC might consider an interim title fight. Chimaev, however, is concentrating on his immediate challenge against Strickland and has wished Ulberg a speedy recovery.
Chimaev also disclosed that he actively pursued the fight with Sean Strickland, reaching out to UFC official Hunter Campbell after Strickland’s win. Furthermore, he expressed his ambition to compete again in October at the UFC’s event in Abu Dhabi.
