Khamzat Chimaev Ramps Up Training after Pushing for a Sean Strickland Fight

Originally posted on BodyBuildingBros | By Avantika Das | Last updated May 30, 2026 10:19 AM ET

An Instagram video posted by @thetreigninglab features MMA fighter Khamzat Chimaev putting in extra effort in a grueling training session. His intensity increased after he pushed for an immediate rematch with Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9. The narrow defeat left Chimaev determined to have another shot at Strickland and win the title.

Although Strickland won merely by a split decision, Chimaev did not take the upset well. For Chimaev, it was not just a loss of the match but also his first professional loss in his career. He did not let the defeat go, challenging Strickland to a rematch while pointing out the tough weight cut that warranted another fight.

On a post on X, “Borz” wrote, “I’m waiting, tell me when you’re ready, Sean Strickland. Next time, somebody has to be d***.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Treigning Lab (@thetreigninglab)

Chimaev’s aggressive stance gives an insight into how frustrated he is with losing by a razor-close decision. In order to guarantee his next win, he is training extra hard, as he shows in the Instagram video.

Inside Khamzat Chimaev’s Training for Strickland Rematch

According to Agent MMA, Chimaev’s brother, Arthur Chimaev, provided a detailed insight into the former’s drastic weight cut before UFC 328. “Borz” officially weighed in at 185 pounds. However, the entire process was so brutal that T.J. Dillashaw, former UFC champion, described him as “on the verge of death.”

Completely geared up for the rematch, Chimaev is now focused on boxing drills, wrestling, grappling sessions, and high-intensity sparring. Furthermore, he is training multiple times a day to fully prepare himself for the next win.

In the reel, Chimaev can be seen performing medicine ball slams. This exercise is incredible for MMA fighters as it trains their explosive strength, builds shoulder endurance, and core strength.

As he eyes a potential rematch with Strickland, Chimaev is undergoing grueling sessions. At the end of these sessions, he is visibly exhausted. Viewers are quick to comment on the Instagram reel, pointing out that the workout must, in fact, be brutal as it has Chimaev lying on his back by the end of it.

Whether or not the rematch gets booked, it appears that Chimaev is determined to leave no stone unturned in preparation.

Do you think his latest training will help him reclaim the middleweight title? Let us know what you think.

This article first appeared on BodyBuildingBros and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: