UFC legend praises Sean Strickland's performance at UFC Houston and previews his upcoming fight with Khamzat Chimaev.

Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev may face each other soon. Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage.

More than a year after being defeated by Dricus Du Plessis , Sean Strickland returned to the octagon with a bang, knocking out Anthony Hernandez in the third round and ending his opponent's eight-fight winning streak. Given the situation in the middleweight category (up to 83,9 kg), the former champion has positioned himself to compete for the title once again, currently held by Khamzat Chimaev . In this context, Daniel Cormier came forward to talk about a supposed confrontation between the two in a video published on YouTube last Sunday (22).

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According to the Ultimate commentator, the way Strickland managed to neutralize Hernandez's game is an indication that he could cause problems for Chimaev, who is also known for his physical dominance and grappling skills.

“If that guy who showed up tonight shows up in that fight (against Khamzat), it will be a much tougher fight for the great Khamzat Chimaev , because even Israel Adesanya , at the peak of his form, had difficulties against that version of Sean Strickland . In the fight against Dricus Du Plessis , it didn't seem like Sean was fully focused; he seemed a little lost,” he stated.

Daniel Cormier believes Khamzat Chimaev would fight against the version of Sean Strickland that fought Anthony Hernandez.

“If that guy that showed up tonight shows up in that [Khamzat] fight, it would be a much more difficult fight for the great Khamzat Chimaev , because even… pic.twitter.com/cfQLrWRKeX

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 22, 2026

Chimaev and Strickland have already exchanged taunts.

Sean Strickland in a post-victory interview at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC

Known for his controversies outside the octagon, Strickland mocked the champion when asked about a potential fight with Chimaev during the post-event press conference.

"You want to see the last American in the sport go out there and take down Khamzat... I'm going to bring a fucking goat and distract him," Sean stated.

A few moments later, the Chechen didn't let it go and responded to the provocation from his rival and potential opponent by citing his performance against Dricus Du Plessis.

“Relax, my partner. I destroyed the guy who beat you twice. You American bitch,” Chimaev wrote.

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