Former
Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight title holder
Khamzat Chimaev claims he is a “true champion”.
Chimaev (15-1) lost the 185-pound title Sean Strickland (31-7) in a big upset at
UFC 328 last May. However, “Borz” disputes the result and wants to win back the championship.
What Khamzat Chimaev had to say about his lone career loss
While Chimaev has demanded a rematch against Strickland, the champion is expected to defend his title Nassourdine Imavov next, when his negotiations with the UFC are resolved. Chimaev says he is ready to fight and is just waiting for an invitation from the UFC.
The Chechen recently called himself the “true champion” claiming he won the match against Strickland.
“I didn’t lose the match (to Strickland),” Chimaev told MMA Junkie. “I am a true champion.”
Chimaev was a heavy favorite going into his title fight against Strickland, but he looked tired as he failed a desperate takedown attempt in the second round. Strickland then floored Chimaev on the legs to earn the split decision win.
Chimaev’s team then hinted that he was dealing with health issues, but decided to go ahead with the fight regardless. UFC CEO
Dana White later claimed that Chimaev would move to light heavyweight, but the former champion still seems committed to middleweight.
Khamzat Chimaev wants to fight “very soon” and is waiting for the UFC to give him a fight. “I didn’t lose the match (to Strickland). I’m the real champion.” (via @Farah_Hannoun) https://t.co/Je6o0T93zR
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie)
November 8, 2026