Dana White thwarts Khamzat Chimaev's UFC plans: 'That's what he wants'

Khamzat Chimaev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube/UFC

PUBLICITY:

Dana White, it seems, has different plans than Khamzat Chimaev for the future of the middleweight division (up to 83,9 kg). After losing the title to Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 328 , the Chechen's team indicated that he would only return to competition if he received an immediate rematch, something the UFC president may not be willing to grant.

In an interview with Bret Boone, Dana White was asked about the topic and made it clear that the rematch against Sean Strickland only reflects Chimaev's desire. However, the UFC president stressed that there is still no concrete decision regarding the next steps for the division.

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"That's what he wants. We still don't know what we're going to do," said Dana White.

Sean Strickland may face Nassourdine Imavov in the UFC.

Sean Strickland vs. Nassourdine Imavov . Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc

PUBLICITY:

Although a duel against Khamzat Chimaev is more appealing to the public, Nassourdine Imavov stands out as Sean Strickland 's likely next opponent . This is because the Frenchman currently holds the number one contender position in the rankings and is riding a long winning streak.

The most recent result was the victory over Caio Borralho in the main event of UFC Paris , held in September 2025.

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