Story thread · 3 reports / 3 sources

Sean Strickland confirms next opponent almost agreed as first UFC title defence beckons

talksport.com · 12h · first reportShare

Sean Strickland looks set to defend his UFC middleweight title against Nassourdine Imavov next. Strickland became a two-time middleweight champion by shockingly defeating Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in his last fight. Strickland defied the odds yet again by claiming a split decision over Chimaev in May Getty The outspoken American stuffed most of Chimaev ‘s takedown threats and outlanded the former champion on the feet, peppering his opponent with his jab, to claim a split decision win. In the days after his win, Strickland revealed he sustained several shoulder injuries during the fight and MMA fans thought he may be sidelined for some time. After spending several months recovering, Strickland’s return to the Octagon was set to be delayed further when he was involved in a side-by-side vehicle accident at 60mph with no helmet. However, in typical Strickland fashion, he was back sparring at the UFC Performance Institute the very next day — something longtime coach Eric Nicksick advised a