Former UFC champion speaks out about Strickland's new title shot and reveals what he thinks of Chimaev

Khamzat Shimaev in victory in UFC 294. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter UFC

The announcement of the rematch between Sean Strickland e Dricus Du Plessis divided opinions among MMA fans and media. For many, although the first fight between the two was controversial, the victories of Khamzat Shimaev were enough to guarantee a fight for the UFC middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg).

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In an interview with the North American podcast MMArcade, the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg), who was finished by Chimaev in October 2024, admitted that he did not agree with Strickland's opportunity to regain the category title.

“Khamzat was in the conversation when he beat Usman that time. And then he was away for a while and then he fought me, beat me. So, I don’t know, he’s always been in the title conversation. He’s undefeated. It’s hard to argue against him getting a shot at this point – especially if you’re giving him a chance.” Sean Strickland a title shot like this,” said the fighter.

Khamzat Shimaev vs Robert whittaker

Khamzat'ın Whittaker'ın ÇENESİNİ KIRARAK kazandığı apple

Apple pie ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/Ozny784TAg

— Kırmızı Köşe (@KirmiziKoseMMA) October 27, 2024

Despite expressing his opinion, the Australian made it clear that he was not upset with the decision made or the situation in the category. He even suggested an alternative for the Chechen.

“To be fair, Sean is that kind of fighter as well. He will fight anyone as well. Sean has fought a lot of people at different weights and that fight (with du Plessis) was so close. I don’t care, man. Ultimately, leave him, who cares? I’m out of the picture, it doesn’t matter. I think Chimaev is a title shot, at least. Put him against Adesanya. That will give him a title shot (if he wins). Why not?”

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