Khamzat Chimaev's brother revealed that Chimaev experienced significant problems during his weight cut, with 1.2 kg remaining when his body gave out. A doctor was called, but they later decided to continue cutting weight. The brother believes the fight should have been canceled due to these issues. Despite the loss, Chimaev has requested a rematch with Sean Strickland in the fall at an event in Abu Dhabi.
Khamzat Chimaev's brother has revealed that the middleweight contender endured a severe weight cut ahead of his fight with Sean Strickland, disclosing that Chimaev's body gave out with 1.2 kilograms still to shed before a doctor was called to the scene.
According to the brother's account, the situation was serious enough that canceling the bout was a genuine consideration. Medical attention was sought, but Chimaev ultimately pushed through and continued the cut to make weight. His brother has since stated he believes the fight should not have gone ahead given the circumstances.
Chimaev, 30 — now 15-1-0 and ranked first in the middleweight division as well as tenth in the pound-for-pound standings — entered the contest as one of the most feared fighters in the sport. The UAE-based Allstars Training Center product carries a striking accuracy of 60 percent and averages an exceptional 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes, suggesting his physical condition on fight night may have materially affected his performance.
Sean Strickland, the reigning middleweight champion, is 31-7-0 and fights out of Xtreme Couture. The 35-year-old American is an output-heavy orthodox striker who lands 6.04 significant strikes per minute across a six-foot-one frame with a 76-inch reach.
Despite the defeat, Chimaev has reportedly requested a rematch against Strickland, with a fall event in Abu Dhabi identified as the target.
Why it matters
- The weight cut disclosure raises questions about whether Chimaev was compromised heading into what was already a high-stakes championship fight.
- A rematch would have significant divisional implications, with Chimaev holding the number-one middleweight ranking and Strickland holding the belt.
- Abu Dhabi has hosted major UFC events before, and Chimaev, representing the UAE, would carry considerable local significance on that card.
