Khamzat Chimaev's grappling coach Alan 'Finfou' do Nascimento sees a three-man race for the next middleweight title shot: Nassourdine Imavov, Anthony Hernandez, and Sean Strickland. Chimaev plans two fights in 2026, targeting June/July including a potential historic UFC White House event on June 14, post-Ramadan. He trains in California after UAE passport eased US entry, following 2025 win over Dricus Du Plessis. Imavov leads with five wins; Hernandez-Strickland fight this weekend could decide. No Russians confirmed for White House, but Chimaev (Chechen) eyes it. This shapes the 185lbs title picture with high stakes.
