Sean Strickland’s next opponent confirmed after UFC decision revealed

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Sean Strickland’s next opponent confirmed after UFC decision revealed

Originally posted on HITC | By Harvey Leonard | Last updated May 10, 2026 12:47 PM ET

Nassourdine Imavov believes he’s earned his place at the front of the line for a shot at the UFC middleweight belt.

Sean Strickland isn’t just remembered for one of MMA’s biggest upsets anymore – after UFC 328, he now has two under his belt.

Strickland became a two-time champion in Newark, beating Khamzat Chimaev in the process and handing the Chechen his first loss as well. And this was following up from defeating Israel Adesanya by unanimous decision in September 2023, which is still regarded as one of the sport’s most surprising results.

A rematch looks unlikely with Chimaev eyeing a move to light heavyweight. Even so, it seems fairly clear who Strickland is expected to face next. And that name? Nassourdine Imavov.

Imavov says he’ll be next in line for title shot after UFC 328

The decision to make Strickland the first challenger of Khamzat Chimaev’s reign was a contentious one.

Imavov had beaten Israel Adesanya and Caio Borralho in back-to-back main events, which made it five consecutive wins. There was no shortage of people who felt he had earned the shot more than Strickland.

Strickland’s loss at UFC 312 marked his second defeat against Dricus du Plessis in three fights.

But with the American now back on top, Du Plessis may have a path to a rematch, though Imavov appears set to get his turn first.

After UFC 328, Imavov spoke with RMC Sport backstage, confirming that while his request to face ‘Stillknocks’ in a title eliminator was rejected by the promotion, he does expect a championship fight instead.

“I asked to fight Dricus Du Plessis but the UFC refused,” Imavov said. “They want to offer me a fight solely for the belt.”

If that happens, it will be another meeting between him and the newly crowned champion.

The two previously fought at light heavyweight in January 2023 when Strickland filled in as a late replacement for Kelvin Gastelum at UFC Vegas 67 main event.

The champion backed Imavov’s case during Paramount’s post-fight show: “(Imavov) is next. I’ll take a little breather, support my boy Alex (Pereira) at the White House. Give me a little time, let my broken nose heal and let’s get back in there.”

This puts Imavov on track for his shot at redemption after what went down at the Prudential Center on May 9th.

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

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