Khamzat Chimaev questions Sean Strickland's success ahead of title defense

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 11:40 PM

Last updated Sep 14, 2026

Khamzat Chimaev questions Sean Strickland's success ahead of title defense
Summary

Khamzat Chimaev voiced confusion over Sean Strickland's victory at UFC 328, where Strickland claimed the middleweight title with a split decision. Chimaev cannot reconcile his first career loss to Strickland and believes Nassourdine Imavov, who is on a five-fight win streak, is technically superior. Imavov is set to challenge Strickland for the title, marking an important matchup for both fighters. Chimaev's comments reflect ongoing tensions in the middleweight division as Imavov prepares for the bout.

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By the Numbers
  • Khamzat Chimaev lost to Sean Strickland at UFC 328 in May.
  • Sean Strickland holds the middleweight title and expects to defend against Nassourdine Imavov.
  • Imavov is currently on a five-fight winning streak.
  • Chimaev questions how Strickland keeps winning despite his own loss.
  • Chimaev believes Imavov has technically improved since their last encounter.
Latest Updates
  • 11:40 PMYahoo SportsKhamzat Chimaev: Nassourdine Imavov 'technically' much better than Sean Strickland
What they're saying
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Khamzat Chimaev is having a hard time understanding how Sean Strickland keeps winning.

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