Khamzat Chimaev Sees Opportunity as Sean Strickland-Nassourdine Imavov Fight Stalls
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Khamzat Chimaev targets another shot at UFC gold as Sean Strickland’s stalled title fight with Nassourdine Imavov raises questions about the middleweight division’s future.
Khamzat Chimaev might just have a chance to reclaim UFC gold as Sean Strickland's middleweight title defense against Nassourdine Imavov remains stuck in negotiations. It seems Strickland isn't thrilled with the proposed pay, and Chimaev has stepped up, making it clear that he wants to settle some unfinished business with the champion.
Khamzat Chimaev Makes His Move Amid Strickland’s Contract Dispute
Chimaev recently decided to stir the pot again by offering to pay Strickland a whopping $1 million for a fight- whether it is inside the Octagon or outside. “Strickland, I will pay you one 🍋 Send me location and let’s fight. Don’t care outside inside the cage,” Chimaev wrote on X.
The bold offer comes at a time when Strickland's potention fight with Imavov remains uncertain due to some disagreements over pay. Strickland had previouusly mentioned that negotations were progressing, saying, “We’re discussing pay now. Once that detail is squared, its locked in.”
To top of it off, Strickland has hinted at the possibility of vacaating his title and exploring opportunities beyond the UFC, adding even more uncertainty to the future of the division.
"I gotta be honest unless things change with the UFC I'm kinda over it," Strickland said on his Instagram page. "McGregor makes 30 million to fight for 30 second and they don't want to pay us a fraction of it. Contemplating just going to 205 knocking out my contract and scrapping with @jakepaul.
Nassourdine Imavov Still Has a Claim to the Title Shot
Despite Chimaev's renewed interest, Imavov is still a top contender, thanks to his impressive five-fight winning streak, including victoriess over former champion Israel Adesanya and Caio Borralho. The French fighter is alo doing his part to push negotiations along by offering Strickland a hefty $500,000 from his own pocket to make their fight a reality.
Chimaev, meanwhile, previously acknowledged Imavov’s position in the title picture. “How long has Imavov been waiting now? He’s already the contender. Whoever wins, we’ll take him,” he said.
As it stands, there’s no confirmed matchup for a vacant title between Chimaev and Imavov just yet. The UFC’s next steps may hinge on whether Strickland and the promotion can settle their financial issues—or if the champion decides to step away from the belt altogether.
