Khamzat Chimaev Sets Eyes on Nassourdine Imavov for First Title Defense After UFC Paris

He has secured victories over elite fighters such as Israel Adesanya, Brendan Allen, and Jared Cannonier, showcasing his championship-level ability. Each win has proven Imavov’s mettle inside the Octagon, combining technical striking and grappling. On paper, considering his recent performances, Imavov clearly stands as the most deserving candidate for a middleweight title shot.

Fans have started rallying strongly behind the talented Frenchman, expressing support and admiration in comments following his latest victory. Previously, UFC CEO Dana White had stated that the fight between Imavov and Borralho carried significant importance in the title race.

He also highlighted the main event at UFC Vancouver between Anthony Hernandez and Reinier de Ridder, as having similarly crucial implications. However, it currently appears that Imavov has pulled far ahead in this competitive four-man race toward the middleweight championship opportunity. 

Nassourdine Imavov explains how he broke his opponent at UFC Paris 

Ahead of their UFC Paris clash, Caio Borralho did his best to trash-talk Nassourdine Imavov publicly, attempting psychological warfare. The Brazilian mocked Imavov’s nationality, making personal remarks while criticizing his fighting style. Borralho continued with verbal jabs, underestimating Imavov and claiming the fight would be an easy victory, fueling media and fan attention.

Imavov calmly responded that he would answer all questions and criticisms inside the Octagon, letting his performance speak louder than words. During the fight, Nassourdine Imavov frustrated Borralho for five rounds, proving all the trash talk wrong with precision. Following the bout, he revealed how he enjoyed the Brazilian feeling helpless inside the Octagon 

I felt it, he was a lot more motivated a week before the fight. I felt like every time I touched him it got more difficult for him. When there’s no solution to your opponent, it’s very difficult to stay motivated. 

Nassourdine Imavov via FULL SEND PODCAST

The Fighting Nerds had built significant hype around their undefeated streak, attracting attention and admiration from fans eager for rising stars. However, that momentum was stopped when Carlos Prates suffered a loss to Ian Garry , ending the hype surrounding their dominance. At UFC Paris, the hype further declined as Borralho lost his first bout in ten years against Imavov.

On top of that, lightweight Mauricio Ruffy also lost to Benoit St. Dennis via submission in the co-main event. Now, only one undefeated fighter remains in their camp, and that is Jean Silva . After all that hype and trash-talking, the Fighting Nerds also received criticism from fans. On top of that, Islam Makhachev , previously feuding with them, mocked this downfall publicly.