Strickland Says Imavov Rematch Is Close as Pay Talks Remain Final Hurdle
A confirmed booking on the UFC's December numbered card in Las Vegas would reshape the middleweight title order.
Overview
- Late September Sean Strickland told fans he and the promotion are negotiating pay and that a rematch with Nassourdine Imavov is “almost there,” but the UFC has not officially announced the fight.
- Multiple outlets link the proposed bout to UFC 335 on December 12 at T‑Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, though the matchup remains unconfirmed while terms are settled.
- Imavov earned a title opportunity with a five‑fight UFC winning streak that includes wins over Israel Adesanya and Caio Borralho, but he has not fought since September 2025.
- Strickland reclaimed the middleweight belt by upsetting Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May 2026 and says he has recovered from shoulder damage and a recent off‑camp accident.
- If the fight is finalized it would delay immediate rematch bids from Khamzat Chimaev and interest from Dricus du Plessis, and it would give the UFC a headline for its only major December numbered event.