Top middleweight contender Nassourdine Imavov had hoped to face the winner of the heated clash between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland at the UFC 328 main event last Saturday night from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. But those plans may be on hold.
As Matt Serra famously said: Hit the road, Frenchy.
Strickland edged Chimaev via split decision to reclaim the title, despite a five-round war that many felt tilted in “Borz’s” favor. Judges Eric Colon and Sal D’Amato awarded the decisive fifth round to Strickland, while Sue Sanidad was the only official to score it for Chimaev.
Regardless of the outcome, the fight was tight enough to merit an immediate rematch. Chimaev dominated early, faded in the middle rounds, then surged late. Former champion Dricus Du Plessis holds two wins over Strickland, but UFC fans may not be eager for a trilogy.
Imavov, who lost to Strickland at UFC Vegas 67, still tried to stake his claim. Unsurprisingly, the comments under his tweet were harsh.
Beyond the rematch chatter, the bout featured an odd dynamic: Strickland and Chimaev exchanged high fives and butt slaps throughout the fight. Weren’t these the same “heated” rivals who needed police intervention at the ceremonial weigh-ins? After the fight, “Borz” rubbed Strickland’s head like a bowling ball. Strange.
For more UFC 328 results and fallout, check the full coverage.
