Chimaev Rejects Strickland Loss, Claims Real Champion Status

Khamzat Chimaev refuses to acknowledge his split decision defeat to Sean Strickland as legitimate, maintaining that he remains the true UFC middleweight champion.

The pair went the distance at UFC 328 in Newark this past May, with Strickland reclaiming the 185-pound title via split decision. The setback represented the first professional loss on Chimaev's record, though the Chechen fighter disputes the judges' scorecards entirely.

Chimaev Eyes Winner of Strickland-Imavov Rematch

In an interview with MMA Junkie's Farah Hannoun, Chimaev criticized Strickland's ongoing contract dispute with UFC brass that has delayed any title defense. The undefeated contender in his own mind said he's prepared to reclaim what he views as his belt whenever the promotion schedules his next bout.

"People say I lost the match, but I'm the real champion," Chimaev told MMA Junkie, standing firm on his interpretation of the Newark result. He positioned himself as the number one contender despite what the official result shows.

A February 2027 rematch between Strickland and Nassourdine Imavov is in the works, per reports. Chimaev reversed an initial plan to move up to heavyweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">light heavyweight and will instead remain at middleweight, where he expects to face whoever emerges victorious from that clash.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Khamzat Chimaev insists he didn’t truly lose UFC middleweight title to Sean Strickland: “I’m the real champion”