Following his third-round finish of Anthony Hernandez in the UFC Houston main event last Saturday, former middleweight champion Sean Strickland demanded a title shot against Khamzat Chimaev. Strickland's callout stems from ongoing social media beef, sparking debate over the next contender amid Nassourdine Imavov's five-fight streak. Strickland's marketability and defensive style could challenge Chimaev's undefeated hype, potentially drawing massive interest at 185 pounds. Imavov appears next in line per rankings, but UFC may prioritize spectacle. This feud elevates middleweight intrigue; expect negotiations soon as Chimaev defends his strap.
