Nassourdine Imavov, the current number one contender at middleweight, is patiently waiting for his chance to fight Khamzat Chimaev for the title. However, the bout has yet to be scheduled as Chimaev is sidelined due to an injury, delaying any official announcements.
Imavov revealed to MMA Fighting that while discussions have taken place with UFC officials Hunter Campbell and Mick Maynard during an event in Doha, Qatar, no contract has been finalized. Initial plans targeted a fight in December, then February, but Chimaev’s injury caused the UFC to reconsider timing.
“But nothing confirmed yet. We spoke recently with Mick Maynard, the matchmaker, and he was [talking about] the fight against Khamzat, but we don’t have final approval, or whatever.”
– Nassourdine Imavov, Middleweight Contender
Expectations Around Chimaev’s Future Fight Plans
Although Khamzat Chimaev has hinted at a move to the light heavyweight division, Imavov remains confident he will have the opportunity to challenge for the middleweight title first. He believes UFC president Dana White will insist that Chimaev defend his current belt before advancing in weight class.
Imavov noted that Chimaev’s size for middleweight likely influences his decision to move up, but the organization’s policy may keep him in the division at least for one more fight.
“I know him, he’s really heavy for the middleweight division, and that’s why he wants to go up to 205,”
Imavov explained.
“Now Dana said he doesn’t want someone to go up without defending. So if Dana says it, it’s like this. And that’s the UFC who manages everything at the end.”
– Nassourdine Imavov
“But if we speak about Khamzat going up, like we saw some exceptions in the past and everything, and Khamzat is, maybe, a big enough star to go up without defending, but it doesn’t matter in the end. It will be the choice of the UFC. And me? I’m ready for whatever.”
– Nassourdine Imavov
Imavov’s Career Momentum and Outlook
Imavov currently holds a record of 17 wins, 4 losses, and 1 no contest. He is coming off a decision victory over Caio Borralho, which has bolstered his position as the frontrunner for the middleweight title fight. While fans await the resolution of Chimaev’s injury status, Imavov remains prepared and focused on the opportunity ahead.
This situation underlines the unpredictable nature of fight scheduling in MMA, where injuries can significantly impact career trajectories. The UFC’s management decisions regarding Chimaev’s potential move to light heavyweight or a mandatory middleweight title defense will be closely watched by fans and fighters alike.
