Chimaev Calls For Immediate Title Shot After UFC 328 Loss

Khamzat Chimaev says he should get another crack at the UFC middleweight title without having to fight again.

Chimaev dropped a close decision to Sean Strickland at UFC 328, losing his championship in a fight many observers scored for the new champion. The Swedish-born contender is not among them. In an interview with MMA Junkie, he disputed the judging and argued that retreating while landing jabs should not win rounds.

Chimaev Questions Scoring System After Strickland Fight

"I'm the No. 1 contender. I didn't lose the match that people think," Chimaev told MMA Junkie. "Like, I never seen a guy win a fight just running backwards and doing just jab, jab. The judges, some judges, before they said, 'Damage, damage,' and he didn't get any damage from that. After, I was in the gym. So, I don't know what they was watching there, you know? Next time, maybe gonna do marathon. You can with the fight there as well."

Chimaev confirmed he is training and wants to return to the Octagon soon, though he has not yet spoken to UFC CEO Dana White or matchmaker Hunter Campbell about his next bout. When asked about his health, he said no updates were necessary and that he is simply waiting for a fight to materialize.

The former champion told MMA Junkie that facing the winner of Strickland's next title defence would be ideal. Strickland is expected to defend the belt later this year, though no opponent has been officially announced.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Khamzat Chimaev goes after judges and calls for a UFC title shot