It seems Khamzat Chimaev has a prospective competitor for his initial UFC title defense.
Chimaev (15-0 MMA) secured the organization’s highly sought-after middleweight title at UFC 319 in Chicago in August, achieving a clear unanimous decision triumph against Dricus du Plessis.
After this remarkable victory, many supporters and experts questioned who would be next for ‘Borz’, given the 185lbs division includes several notable contenders like Nassourdine Imavov, Sean Strickland, and Anthony Hernandez.
Although numerous fans anticipated Khamzat Chimaev might make a swift return, the newly crowned middleweight champion recently indicated an injury would sideline him until mid-2026.
However, it doesn’t appear that Dana White and the UFC plan to establish an interim title bout, as Nassourdine Imavov mentioned having a beneficial discussion with promotional representatives and intends to await Chimaev’s recovery.
I’m not used to waiting, but this time I have to
— Imavov Nassourdine (@imavov1) November 27, 2025
“Had a good conversation with UFC, I told them, Title shot only! If we have to wait, we’ll wait. No distractions, no detours, Great things require great preparation. Make no mistake, I’ll be ready! I’m not used to waiting, but this time I have to.”
Khamzat Chimaev apparently noticed Imavov’s tweets, as ‘Borz’ subsequently delivered this warning to ‘The Sniper’.
See you after Ramadan @imavov1 🤫
You have time work on your wrestling Bratishka 😁— Khamzat Chimaev (@KChimaev) November 27, 2025
“See you after Ramadan @imavov1🤫 You have time work on your wrestling Bratishka 😁”
Nassourdine Imavov (17-4 MMA) currently holds a five-fight winning sequence, featuring wins against Brendan Allen, Israel Adesanya, and Caio Borralho.
In your opinion, does Imavov possess the necessary abilities to defeat undefeated UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev?
