Chimaev Backs Imavov to Beat Strickland in 2026 UFC Title Fight
Updated
Updated · Fighters Only · Sep 14
Chimaev Backs Imavov to Beat Strickland in 2026 UFC Title Fight
3 articles · Updated · Fighters Only · Sep 14
Summary
Khamzat Chimaev said Nassourdine Imavov is technically superior to Sean Strickland and could outstrike the champion in a potential middleweight title fight before the end of 2026.
Cardio is the key variable in Chimaev’s view: he said Strickland can outlast Imavov, but argued the French contender is "much better" technically if he feels strong over the distance.
Their matchup carries extra weight because Strickland already beat Imavov by unanimous decision in January 2023, though Chimaev said Imavov has improved significantly since then.
Chimaev’s assessment is notable after his own title loss to Strickland at UFC 328 in May, a defeat that ended the former champion’s unbeaten run and reshaped the middleweight title picture.