Nassourdine Imavov says UFC promised Strickland title shot

Nassourdine Imavov says the UFC promised him a crack at the middleweight title against Sean Strickland.

The French contender told Jaiden Cable's YouTube channel that promotion officials assured him he would get the next championship opportunity after Strickland reclaimed the belt from Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328. "The UFC told me my next fight would be for the belt," Imavov said, per Sherdog.

Imavov turned down Du Plessis fight to wait for title shot

Imavov revealed he was willing to take a bout against former champion Dricus Du Plessis to stay active before the promotion instructed him to wait for Strickland instead. If the plan holds, Imavov expects the fight to land in October or November.

The call would give Imavov a chance to avenge his 2023 loss to Strickland. Imavov made clear he has little regard for the outspoken American. "I don't like him. It's personal between me and him," he said. "He's not a good person."

Since dropping that decision to Strickland, Imavov has rattled off five straight wins over Roman Dolidze, Jared Cannonier, Brendan Allen, Israel Adesanya and Caio Borralho. Strickland recaptured the middleweight strap with his victory over Chimaev, who is already pushing for a rematch with the reigning champion.

Original reporting:

• sherdog.com — Nassourdine Imavov claims UFC promised next title shot against Sean Strickland