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Sean Strickland supports Nassourdine Imavov for next title defense: âI truly believe in UFC rankingsâ
TL;DR
Sean Strickland supports Nassourdine Imavov for the next title defense after defeating Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328. Strickland emphasizes the importance of traditional matchmaking in the UFC rankings.
Key points
- Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328
- Strickland supports Nassourdine Imavov for the next title defense
- Strickland emphasizes traditional matchmaking in UFC rankings
Sean StricklandKhamzat ChimaevNassourdine ImavovUFC 328
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 13: (L-R) Opponents Sean Strickland and Nassourdine Imavov of Russia face off during the UFC weigh-in at UFC APEX on January 13, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images) | Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
There was a lot of criticism when UFC decided to slot Sean Strickland against Khamzat Chimaev for UFC 328, overlooking true No. 1 contender Nassourdine Imavov in the process. But itâs hard to say the promotion was wrong after this weekendâs results: The UFC 328 press conference did massive numbers, bigger than any in years. UFC CEO Dana White said the event metrics were huge. And Strickland went and beat Chimaev via split decision, proving he was worthy of the shot after all.
Now âTarzanâ says he hopes the UFC goes back to more traditional matchmaking where the top guy in the ranking fights the champion. That would be Imavov, coincidentally a guy that Strickland already beat back in 2023.
âThey say Nassourdine is next,â Strickland said at the UFC 328 post-fight press conference. âI will take a little breather. I want to go support my boy Alex [Pereira] at the White House. I want to watch him make history and get that third belt.â
Q&A
Why did Sean Strickland fight Khamzat Chimaev instead of Nassourdine Imavov?
Sean Strickland fought Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 due to promotional decisions, despite criticism for overlooking Imavov, the true No. 1 contender.
What did Sean Strickland say about UFC matchmaking after his win?
After his victory, Sean Strickland expressed a desire for the UFC to return to traditional matchmaking, where the top-ranked fighter faces the champion.
What are the implications of Strickland's win for Nassourdine Imavov?
Strickland's win over Chimaev strengthens his position in the rankings and suggests that Imavov, whom Strickland previously defeated, should be next in line for a title shot.
