Khamzat Chimaev is tired of staying on the sidelines after his UFC 328 title loss. The former UFC middleweight champion has called out several top 185-pound contenders and even current and two-time champion Sean Strickland.

Strickland pulled off one of the biggest upsets by defeating Khamzat Chimaev by split decision. The loss ended the Chechen-born Emirati’s unbeaten run and postponed his plans of moving up in weight in pursuit of two-division glory.

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – MAY 09: (R-L) Sean Strickland punches Khamzat Chimaev of Russia in the UFC middleweight championship fight during the UFC 328 event at Prudential Center on May 09, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Chimaev wants the strap back and has called out “Tarzan” several times for a rematch. Yet, there have not been any new updates from the UFC or even Strickland.

Earlier today, Chimaev, via X, informed the matchmakers that he’s ready to enter the octagon. He also named three UFC middleweights, and champion Sean Strickland, any of whom “Borz” is game to face next.

“I’m ready 🦾 let me know when you are ready 🫡 Sean [Strickland], Dricus [du Plessis], Nassourdine [Imavov], Caio [Borralho].”

Check out Khamzat Chimaev’s comments below:

What has Dana White said about a potential Sean Strickland vs. Khamzat Chimaev 2 title rematch?

Dana White has previously said that the UFC brass has not made a decision yet about what is next for Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland. White, however, has told the media that Strickland is ready to face anyone.

After winning the UFC middleweight title for the second time, Strickland did not want to run it back with Chimaev right away. Instead, he wanted to run it back with top contender Nassourdine Imavov, who’s currently on a five-fight win streak. However, Strickland’s most recent comments suggest that a title rematch with Chimaev could be next.

Meanwhile, Imavov has also stated that the UFC brass has promised him a title fight, and he wants revenge for his previous loss to Strickland and also to look to make the polarizing American UFC champ pay for all the nonsense he has talked about “The Sniper” and the Muslim community.

This makes the UFC middleweight title picture even more complicated. On one side is Imavov, who has a strong case for a title shot and has waited long enough. On the other is the former champion, who believes he is better than Strickland and can easily dethrone the latter if they run it back.

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.