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Sean Strickland discusses potential opponents for first title defense

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 8:04 PM

Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Sean Strickland discusses potential opponents for first title defense

Summary

Sean Strickland, the reigning middleweight champion, is navigating his first title defense following his victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328. There is uncertainty about his next opponent, as Chimaev expects an immediate rematch. Dricus Du Plessis, who recently defeated Kamaru Usman, is also in contention. Nassourdine Imavov claims he is guaranteed a title fight and expresses a personal rivalry with Strickland. Imavov has won five straight fights since his loss to Strickland at UFC Vegas 67. Strickland has indicated he is open to facing Imavov for the title.

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By the Numbers

•Strickland defeated Chimaev to become middleweight champion.
•Chimaev expects an immediate rematch.
•Imavov claims to be next in line for a title shot.
•Du Plessis is also a contender after a win over Usman.
•Strickland is open to facing Imavov in his title defense.

Latest Updates

8:04 PMYahoo Sports — Who is Sean Strickland fighting next? ‘UFC told me I could fight only for the belt,’ says middleweight ‘Sniper’

What they're saying

"
Sean Strickland is once again the middleweight champion. But his first title defense after recapturing the crown with a victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 remains a puzzle for matchmakers to solve. Chimaev is under the impression that he’s getting an immediate rematch while Dricus Du Plessis — who already holds two victories over […]
— Yahoo Sports

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Yahoo SportsJul 22, 2026, 8:04 PM
Who is Sean Strickland fighting next? ‘UFC told me I could fight only for the belt,’ says middleweight ‘Sniper’
Sean Strickland is once again the middleweight champion. But his first title defense after recapturing the crown with a victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 remains a puzzle for matchmakers to solve. Chimaev is under the impression that he’s getting an immediate rematch while Dricus Du Plessis — who already holds two victories over […]

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