Sean Strickland asserts that he is the fighter most capable of claiming the UFC Middleweight Championship from Khamzat Chimaev. Despite suffering two defeats to Dricus du Plessis, Strickland believes his style gives him an advantage over Chimaev and a better chance at the title than his upcoming opponent, Anthony Hernandez.
Comparing Wrestling and Fighting Styles Against Chimaev
Speaking to ESPN’s Brett Okamoto, Strickland discussed the potential matchup with Chimaev, evaluating both wrestlers’ abilities and pacing over five rounds. He stated,
“That would be a big fight,”
and continued,
“I think I’m probably the only one that could beat Chimaev. I honestly think ‘Fluffy’s’ a better wrestler than Chimaev. I think pace-wise, style-wise, I think over five rounds, ‘Fluffy’s’ probably a better [wrestler]. But then stand-up, I think Chimaev might take him to a stand-up decision.”
Strickland’s analysis highlights the complexity of a fight between wrestlers with differing strengths.
Criticism of Chimaev’s Lack of Title Defenses
Strickland openly criticized Chimaev’s limited activity since winning the Middleweight Championship in August 2025, expressing frustration with the division’s stagnation. He remarked,
“It’s not how this [f*cking] sport works, dude,”
and added,
“Don’t be a [b*tch], go fight that guy. Now the middleweight division man, from a pure money perspective, you would make more money not fighting for the belt than you would fighting for the belt. Say Chimaev goes and fights Nassourdine in six months. Well, let’s say Chimaev sprains his [f*cking] pinkie like he normally does, now he takes another year off. So it’s like, you’re off for two years where the belt isn’t even in my brain anymore.”
This frustration underscores the uncertainty surrounding the championship’s future.
Upcoming Fight Against Hernandez Could Influence Title Picture
Strickland’s next fight against Anthony Hernandez, scheduled for February 21, carries significant weight in the middleweight division’s title landscape. With Khamzat Chimaev’s next defense still undecided, this bout might impact the championship’s trajectory. Fans eagerly await the possibility of seeing Strickland face Chimaev inside the Octagon, as the stakes in the division remain high.
