Strickland is known for being outspoken, and his stance on Chimaev’s inaction is no exception. Chimaev was last seen in the Octagon when he put on some brilliant wrestling against Dricus du Plessis. After nearly 22 minutes of control time, Chimaev won the UFC Middleweight Championship via unanimous decision.
That title fight took place in August 2025, and ‘Borz’ hasn’t been in the Octagon since. This has drawn the ire of Strickland, who is questioning Chimaev’s litany of injuries.
In a recent interview, Strickland didn’t go so far as to say Chimaev will be forced to give up the 185-pound gold, but he believes the defending middleweight champion likes the attention more than the competition.
“No, I think he will eventually,” Strickland said. “I think when the Chechen warlord says, ‘Okay, it’s time for you to represent us,’ I think he’s going to be forced to fight. I don’t think he likes fighting. I mean, fighting sucks. It’s [expletive] scary, it’s hard, but I don’t think he’s a natural fighter. He might be a natural wrestler.”
Chimaev has shown more interest in a superfight with UFC Light Heavyweight champion Alex Pereira than in a title defense against Nassourdine Imavov. Many believe Imavov is the rightful No. 1 contender, but Chimaev has said he likes Imavov and would rather not face him.
Strickland hopes to get back into title contention on Saturday when he shares the Octagon with Anthony Hernandez. The two will meet in the headliner of UFC Houston.
Do you think Khamzat Chimaev will defend the UFC Middleweight Championship or will he ultimately be forced out? Sound off in the comments section below.
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