Arman Tsarukyan breaks silence on whether Khamzat Chimaev wants Sean Strickland rematch after UFC 328 loss or move up to light heavyweight

Top UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has revealed that Khamzat Chimaev is no longer planning an immediate move to the light heavyweight division. Following his recent title defeat at UFC 328, many believed Chimaev wanted to test himself at 205 pounds and chase championship success in another weight class. However, Tsarukyan has now confirmed that the unbeaten star has changed his focus completely.

Instead of pursuing a new division, Khamzat Chimaev reportedly wants a second fight against Sean Strickland. Chimaev lost the UFC middleweight title to Strickland at UFC 328, but according to Tsarukyan, the setback has only increased his motivation. The lightweight contender stated that his close friend is mentally ready to return stronger and is already preparing for another shot at the middleweight crown despite resistance from the current champion.

Sean Strickland uninterested in immediate rematch with Khamzat Chimaev

Speaking during an appearance on the JAXXON Podcast, Arman Tsarukyan explained that Khamzat Chimaev is fully focused on avenging his loss. Tsarukyan said Chimaev’s confidence remains high after UFC 328 and added that the fighter is more determined than ever to prove himself. He also mentioned that Chimaev has temporarily put aside his ambitions of becoming a two-division UFC champion because reclaiming the middleweight title is now his biggest priority.

Reports suggest that Chimaev hopes to face Sean Strickland again in October at the UFC Abu Dhabi event. Training footage shared online has already fueled speculation that “Borz” has resumed intense preparations shortly after the title defeat.

However, Sean Strickland does not appear interested in giving Chimaev an immediate title opportunity. After regaining the UFC middleweight championship, Strickland told Full Send MMA that the challenger needs to rebuild his position before another shot at the belt.

The American fighter explained that contenders should earn title fights through victories and consistency. He suggested that Chimaev should first secure a few important wins before returning to the championship picture. Strickland also emphasized that rankings should continue to matter in the UFC because bypassing deserving contenders could hurt the sport’s credibility.

For now, the UFC has not officially announced Chimaev’s next fight. Still, the rivalry between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland remains one of the biggest talking points in mixed martial arts.




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