UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland has recently cast doubts on Khamzat Chimaev's eligibility for a title shot. In an interview with UFC Fight Pass, Strickland expressed his skepticism about Chimaev's qualifications, despite the latter's recent victory over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman.
Strickland Questions Chimaev's Credentials
Known as "Tarzan" in the ring, Strickland was candid about his views on Chimaev. He acknowledged that Chimaev's popularity helps sell fights but insisted that this alone doesn't warrant a title shot. "For some reason, people either like him or don't. To me, he's just a paycheck. He sells a lot of fights. People pay to watch, but he hasn't earned it," Strickland said.
This statement came after Chimaev's majority decision victory over Usman in the co-main event of UFC 294, held last Saturday in Abu Dhabi. Leading up to the event, UFC CEO Dana White had promoted this matchup as a title eliminator, a stance that Strickland disputes.
"He hasn’t deserved it, but here we are. Give it to him. He sells a lot of fights. I’ll go fight the man for five rounds. But no, he’s not earned it. He doesn’t deserve it. Getting a decision with a welterweight off the couch is not earning it,” Strickland added.
Strickland's Unlikely Rise to the Top
Strickland clinched the middleweight belt with a surprising unanimous decision victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 last September, one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. As of now, the champion boasts a three-fight winning streak.
Chimaev's Return to Middleweight
Chimaev made his middleweight return at UFC 294, having previously competed at welterweight. On short notice, Usman ventured into middleweight to replace Paulo Costa, who had to withdraw from the event due to an elbow injury and subsequent surgery.
Prior to the bout with Usman, Chimaev, also known as “Borz,” had not fought in over a year. His last victory was via submission against Kevin Holland in a 180-pound catchweight fight at UFC 279 in September 2022.
Despite Strickland's criticisms, Chimaev's match with Usman ended with one judge scoring it a 28-28 draw, while the others leaned in favor of Chimaev with 29-28 scores.
Strickland's Disappointment with the UFC’s Choices
Strickland also expressed his disappointment with the UFC’s choice to grant his first title defense to fighters transitioning from welterweight. He had previously disapproved of the Chimaev-Usman bout when the Abu Dhabi schedules were announced, saying it was just a fight “to fill a seat.”
A Past Training Incident
Strickland also referenced a past training incident where Chimaev misinterpreted something he said. Despite this misunderstanding, Strickland stated that he holds no fear towards facing Chimaev. "Here’s the thing about Chimaev, the man can fight, we all know that. But, me and him are different. Chimaev could be right here, and I would fight that man to the death right here," Strickland declared.
In response to Strickland’s remarks, Chimaev took to social media to respond, saying, “You’re next, don’t worry. You know how quickly I can finish you.” The stage is set for a potential showdown between the two fighters, promising an exciting spectacle for UFC fans.