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Sean Strickland gets unexpected support from rival amid Khamzat Chimaev feud
Sean Strickland is getting some support from a former foe, who believes he’s got a shot at dethroning Khamzat Chimaev.
While Nassourdine Imavov made a case to receive a UFC Middleweight Championship opportunity by extending his winning streak to five after defeating Caio Borralho, Strickland has regained momentum. In the main event of UFC Houston, Strickland crumbled Hernandez with a knee to the body and some follow-up punches to seal the second-round TKO finish.
During his post-fight interview, Strickland fired insults at Chimaev, who is the reigning 185-pound titleholder. Strickland has been critical of Chimaev’s inactivity. “Borz” hasn’t competed since he defeated Dricus du Plessis to capture the gold back in Aug. 2025.
In an appearance on “The Ariel Helwani Show,” du Plessis backed Strickland to have success against Chimaev if the two are booked in a middleweight title fight (via MMAJunkie).
“That’s interesting because as far as I know, Imavov and Khamzat said they didn’t want to fight each other,” Du Plessis said. “You know the UFC doesn’t like that at all. I do think the Strickland fight does make sense. For me, I don’t want to fight Strickland again unless he’s champion. I do think Strickland would do great against Khamzat. Just his style, I think he would.”
When asked if Strickland would have a better shot against “Borz” than Imavov, du Plessis didn’t hesitate with his answer.
“Strickland is stronger than people think on a physical level, and his technique to get back to his feet is very good. … Strickland has this unique ability to make people fight his fights, and if you haven’t been in there with him, it’s really hard to figure him out in a short period of time.”
There have been two bouts between du Plessis and Strickland. Ultimately, du Plessis won both encounters with the rematch being a one-sided affair. While both men had their tense moments, such as brawling in the crowd, they have developed mutual respect.
Do you think Sean Strickland has the best chance at defeating Khamzat Chimaev? Drop a comment below.
