Following his loss at UFC 328, Khamzat Chimaev appears to have emotionally reconsidered his plans to move up to light heavyweight and now wants a rematch with Sean Strickland. The post questions whether seeking a rematch is justified or if Chimaev should proceed with moving to the higher weight class as previously suggested. Chimaev's emotional state following the defeat seems to have influenced this change in thinking. The decision represents a crossroads for Chimaev's career trajectory following the setback against Strickland. Details on Chimaev's official plans remain limited based on the post.
Reports suggest Khamzat Chimaev has had a change of heart following his loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9, with the middleweight contender apparently now seeking a rematch rather than following through on previously discussed plans to move up to light heavyweight. The story has not been officially confirmed and should be treated as unverified for now.
Strickland, who improves his record to 31-7-0 with the victory, is the reigning middleweight champion at 35 years old. The American fighter out of Xtreme Couture is one of the division's most active strikers, landing 6.04 significant strikes per minute with a 76-inch reach that helps him control range and dictate distance throughout fights.
Chimaev, now 15-1-0, had entered the contest as the division's top-ranked contender and the number-ten pound-for-pound fighter in the world. The 32-year-old representing the UAE and training out of Allstars Training Center carries an exceptional 60 percent striking accuracy and averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes, making him one of the more complete threats at 185 pounds. The defeat marks only the second blemish of his professional career.
Why it matters
- Chimaev held the number-one middleweight ranking heading into UFC 328, so his next move carries significant divisional weight
- A rematch with Strickland would keep the title picture at 185 pounds focused on the same two fighters
- A move to light heavyweight, as previously floated, would open up the middleweight title picture for other ranked contenders
- Chimaev's emotional framing of the situation, per the unconfirmed report, suggests no formal decision has been made
Saturday, May 9, 2026
