Here’s a bold statement for you: Sean Strickland believes he’s the only fighter capable of dethroning the undefeated UFC middleweight champion, Khamzat Chimaev. But here’s where it gets controversial—Strickland isn’t just making a claim; he’s backing it up with a mix of confidence, critique, and a dash of provocation that’s sure to spark debate.
Strickland, currently sitting at a solid 29-7 in MMA (16-7 in the UFC), is on the verge of another title shot if he secures a win at UFC Fight Night 267. His next challenge? Facing the red-hot Anthony Hernandez (15-2 MMA, 9-2 UFC) in the main event on February 21 at the Toyota Center in Houston, streaming live on Paramount+. While Nassourdine Imavov seems like the frontrunner for a title shot after an impressive five-win streak, Chimaev’s recent reluctance to face him has opened the door for Strickland to step into the spotlight.
In a recent interview with ESPN MMA, Strickland didn’t hold back. “That would be a massive fight,” he said about a potential matchup with Chimaev. “I genuinely believe I’m the only one who could beat him. I think ‘Fluffy’ [Nassourdine Imavov] is a better wrestler than Chimaev, and over five rounds, his pace and style might give him an edge. But in standup? Chimaev could edge him out with a decision.” And this is the part most people miss—Strickland isn’t just praising Imavov; he’s subtly highlighting Chimaev’s vulnerabilities while positioning himself as the ultimate challenger.
What’s truly stirring the pot, though, is Strickland’s criticism of Chimaev’s fight schedule—or lack thereof. After dominating Dricus Du Plessis to claim the 185-pound title at UFC 319 in August, Chimaev has fought just once in 2025, following a similar pattern in 2024 and 2023. Strickland didn’t mince words: “It’s weird how the UFC handles Chimaev. They’ve got a guy who fights once a year, like some kind of MMA Madonna. How much is he getting paid under the table? He’s best friends with a warlord, gets gifted luxury cars—he doesn’t need to fight. He’s just going to sit on that belt until they force him to defend it. Then he says, ‘I don’t want to fight you, my brother,’ to Nassourdine. That’s not how this sport works. Don’t be a coward. Step up and fight.”
Strickland’s comments are more than just trash talk—they’re a call to action and a critique of the UFC’s handling of its champions. Here’s the real question: Is Strickland right? Is Chimaev being protected, or is Strickland just stirring the pot to get his shot? And if Strickland does get that title fight, can he back up his bold claims? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—do you agree with Strickland, or is he biting off more than he can chew?
