Imavov refuses reconciliation with Strickland: 'I'd rather die'

Nassourdine Imavov has responded firmly to Sean Strickland's provocations, stating that insults about religion, family, and nation are not marketing to him and that every insult has a price. Imavov declared there will be no happy ending for Strickland and emphasized his unwillingness to show any post-fight sportsmanship. When a follower asked him not to hug Strickland after their potential fight, Imavov replied emphatically 'NEVER! I'd rather die.' The exchange shows deep personal animosity between the two middleweights that goes beyond typical pre-fight promotion.