Coach Sees Three-Way Race for UFC Title Shot
Khamzat Chimaev’s coach sees a three-man race for the next UFC title shot in their division. Chimaev has not defended his title since winning it in 2025. The statement comes as the UFC continues to push for a potential event at the White House.
- Khamzat Chimaev won the UFC Middleweight Championship in August 2025 by defeating Dricus du Plessis in a dominant unanimous decision at UFC 319. All three judges scored the bout 50-44 in his favor. - The top contenders in the division include Nassourdine Imavov, former champion Sean Strickland, and Anthony Hernandez. Chimaev's coach has indicated the UFC is likely waiting for the outcome of the Strickland vs. Hernandez fight on February 21, 2026, to decide on the next title challenger. - Nassourdine Imavov is the #2 ranked middleweight and is on a multi-fight win streak that includes victories over top contenders like Jared Cannonier and former champion Israel Adesanya. Many analysts consider him the most likely next challenger for the title. - Chimaev has expressed interest in fighting on a proposed UFC card at the White House. The event is planned for June 14, 2026, on the South Lawn to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States and will coincide with Donald Trump's 80th birthday. - UFC President Dana White has stated that the fight card for the White House event is "done," although no specific matchups have been officially announced. The event is expected to feature six or seven fights. - Chimaev has been criticized by other fighters, including Sean Strickland, for his inactivity since winning the belt. He has only competed once a year in each of the last three years. - The champion has also stated his intention to defend his middleweight title once and then move up to the light heavyweight division. He has specifically mentioned a desire for a "super fight" with the light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira.
