Sean Strickland Responds to Nassourdine Imavov Call-Out
Former middleweight champion Sean Strickland made a victorious return to the octagon on Saturday, defeating Anthony Hernandez in the main event of UFC Houston. Following his win, Strickland, currently ranked No. 3 in the division, was promptly challenged by No. 2 ranked Nassourdine Imavov.
Imavov took to social media to express his desire for a rematch, proclaiming, "My dream. Bring me tha clown for the crown."
Strickland and Imavov have previously faced each other in January 2023 at UFC Vegas 67, where Strickland secured a clear unanimous decision victory over 'The Sniper'. Given his prior dominance, Strickland appears disinclined to grant Imavov a second fight.
Addressing Imavov's challenge backstage at the Toyota Center, Strickland stated, "Listen dude, I've moved past you. I've beat you. Relax. Either you get the belt or I get the belt. Once you get the belt, I'll take it from you. Once I get the belt, you'll lose to me."
The current UFC middleweight championship (185 pounds) is held by the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev. Strickland and Chimaev, once training partners, have developed a bitter rivalry. It remains to be seen whether Strickland's recent decisive win over Hernandez will earn him a direct shot at the title.
Meanwhile, Imavov is on an impressive five-fight winning streak and holds the second spot in the rankings, trailing only former titleholder Dricus du Plessis.
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