Strickland celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Sean Strickland has barely emerged from one controversial war and is already embroiled in another. The American defeated Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 , held last Saturday (9), winning the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg). After the fight, known for its provocative style, the fighter pointed to Nassourdine Imavov as a possible next opponent and also responded to accusations of racism made by his rival.
In a social media post, Imavov stated that he does not consider provocations involving religion, family, and nation as part of promoting fights. The Franco-Russian stressed that this type of attitude crosses personal boundaries and indicated that Strickland will have to deal with the consequences of his statements, signaling a reckoning in the future.
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“They say I take things too personally. Sure. Religion, family, nation… this isn’t marketing for me. Every insult has a price. You will pay for it! NO HAPPY ENDING,” Imavov wrote.
They say I take things too personally. Damn right. Religion, family, nation… these aren't marketing to me. Every insult comes with a price. You'll pay for it! NO HAPPY ENDING @SStricklandMMA https://t.co/nsiVVUr6Z9
— Imavov Nassourdine (@imavov1) May 11, 2026
Khamzat Chimaev is defeated by Sean Strickland at UFC 328.
Sean Strickland being crowned champion after his fight against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328. Photo: Reproduction/X
Although Khamzat Chimaev was considered the heavy favorite in the main event of UFC 328 , the fight took an unexpected turn against Sean Strickland . After a first round dominated by the Chechen, the scenario changed in the second round, when the American began to gain the upper hand, especially in the striking exchanges.
After five rounds, Strickland was crowned the new middleweight champion by split decision.
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