Khamzat Chimaev plans to chase Sean Strickland across divisions for a middleweight title rematch.
Former UFC champion Khamzat Chimaev is intensifying his campaign for a high-stakes rematch against current rival Sean Strickland following a controversial loss earlier this year. Chimaev lost his middleweight title back in May after Strickland secured a narrow split decision in what many considered a massive upset inside the Octagon.
Despite months passing since the title bout, no official fight has been booked because Strickland is reportedly holding out for a larger financial payout. Refusing to let the matter drop, Chimaev has made it clear that he intends to track down the American fighter regardless of weight classes, according to information published by bjpenn.
The rivalry between the two mixed martial arts stars has escalated into a public war of words as Chimaev labels his opponent a runner, while the champion evaluates other potential contenders like Nassourdine Imavov within the Ultimate Fighting Championship organization.
Chimaev targets Strickland across weight divisions
During a recent interview with ESPN, the 15-1 professional fighter stated that he is willing to pursue the American anywhere to settle their unfinished business in the cage. Chimaev emphasized that weight classes will not stop him from securing another shot at his rival, mentioning potential matchups at light heavyweight or heavyweight.
Calling his opponent a chicken running away, the UFC star asserted that he remains the hunter in this scenario. He believes that if Strickland truly requires a lucrative financial payday, the most logical path forward is to accept a championship rematch.
Controversy surrounding the first middleweight title fight
The bitter feud stems from their previous encounter in May, where Sean Strickland edged out a split decision to capture the championship belt. Chimaev firmly maintains that he won the contest and expressed frustration with the judges' final scorecard.
According to the challenger, history was made for the wrong reasons during that title bout. He stated that he has never witnessed a fighter moving backward for the entire duration successfully win a championship belt in the history of the promotion.
Future title implications and upcoming division plans
Before suffering the setback against Strickland, Khamzat Chimaev delivered a dominant performance against Dricus Du Plessis to claim the middleweight title for the first time in his professional career. That victory cemented his status as one of the most dangerous athletes on the roster.
Although Nassourdine Imavov currently stands as a likely next opponent for the titleholder, Chimaev remains relentless in his pursuit. He is fully confident that a second encounter will yield a definitive outcome, potentially removing the judges from the equation entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Khamzat Chimaev lose his middleweight title?
Khamzat Chimaev lost his middleweight title in May after Sean Strickland secured a narrow split decision victory in a major upset within the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
What did Khamzat Chimaev say about Sean Strickland?
Khamzat Chimaev called Sean Strickland a chicken running away and vowed to hunt him down for a rematch across any weight division, including light heavyweight and heavyweight.
Who is likely to fight Sean Strickland next?
While Khamzat Chimaev is campaigning heavily for a rematch, Nassourdine Imavov is also widely considered a likely next opponent for the reigning champion.
What is Khamzat Chimaev's professional MMA record?
Khamzat Chimaev holds a professional mixed martial arts record of 15-1, having previously defeated Dricus Du Plessis to win the UFC middleweight title.
