UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland has recently voiced his skepticism regarding Khamzat Chimaev's eligibility for a title shot. In an interview with UFC Fight Pass on October 22, Strickland expressed that while he appreciates Chimaev's ability to sell fights, he doesn't believe the fighter has truly earned his potential title opportunity.
Strickland Questions Chimaev's Credentials
"For some reason, people either like him or don't like him. To me, he’s just a paycheck," Strickland said. "He sells a lot of fights. People pay to watch, but in my opinion, he hasn’t earned it."
Strickland's comments came after Chimaev secured a majority decision victory over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman in the co-main event of UFC 294 last Saturday in Abu Dhabi. Despite the win, Strickland remains unconvinced about Chimaev's readiness for a title shot.
"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 Championship Reign
Strickland himself ascended to the middleweight throne following a surprising unanimous decision victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 last September, marking one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. Currently, the champion is enjoying a three-fight winning streak and is preparing for his first title defense.
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 had not fought in over a year. His last victory came via submission against Kevin Holland in a 180-pound catchweight fight at UFC 279 in September 2022.
Strickland's Disappointment with 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 previously disapproved of the Chimaev-Usman bout when the Abu Dhabi schedules were announced, saying it was just a fight “to fill a seat.”
Past Training Incident
Strickland mentioned a past training incident involving Chimaev, where he claims the latter misinterpreted something he said. Despite this, Strickland stated that he has no fear of facing Chimaev.
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.”
As the verbal sparring intensifies between the two fighters, fans eagerly await what could be a thrilling showdown inside the Octagon.