Chimaev Pushes for Immediate Rematch After Narrow Loss to Strickland.

Khamzat Chimaev is already targeting a second showdown with Sean Strickland following their closely contested title fight at UFC 328, with sources close to Chimaev saying the former champion has no interest in any other matchup. According to Chimaev’s team, the undefeated streak being snapped by Strickland has only intensified his focus on reclaiming the middleweight belt. “Khamzat is locked in on getting the rematch with Sean,” his camp said. “That’s the fight he wants next, and right now it’s the only one he’s willing to consider.”

Chimaev (15-1) lost the UFC middleweight championship to Strickland (31-7) via split decision last Saturday in Newark, New Jersey, in what was one of the promotion’s most anticipated bouts of the year. Two judges scored the contest 48-47 for Strickland, while the third saw it in favor of Chimaev. The rivalry between the two had become increasingly heated during fight week, prompting the UFC to increase security measures ahead of the event. Despite the tension leading into the bout, both fighters showed mutual respect afterward. Chimaev was seen placing the championship belt around Strickland’s waist following the decision, while Strickland later downplayed any lingering animosity between them. In the immediate aftermath of the fight, UFC CEO Dana White revealed Chimaev had expressed interest in moving up to the light heavyweight division. However, that possibility now appears to be on hold as the former champion pivots toward pursuing another shot at Strickland. Chimaev fueled speculation about a rematch later that night with a social media post reading, “See you soon again.” Whether the UFC moves forward with an immediate second fight remains uncertain. White described the idea of Chimaev changing weight classes as “exciting,” while Strickland indicated he expects his first title defense could come against rising French contender Nassourdine Imavov.