Overview
- Strickland said Thursday that his shoulder is getting stronger but he needs more time before scheduling a defense and he singled out Khamzat Chimaev as a likely next foe.
- Chimaev answered on X with taunts and threats hours later, restarting a public back-and-forth between the two fighters.
- Multiple outlets report a Strickland–Chimaev rematch is gaining momentum in coverage, but the UFC has not announced an opponent or date.
- Nassourdine Imavov and Dricus du Plessis remain clear alternative challengers because Imavov has a long winning run and du Plessis holds two prior wins over Strickland.
- The update matters because Strickland fought and won the title on May 9 while carrying a Grade 1 AC joint separation, a fact that helps explain his cautious recovery timetable and the timing of any return.