At UFC Houston, Sean Strickland didn’t just defeat Anthony Hernandez—he reasserted himself as a structural pillar of the middleweight division. Ranked No. 3 entering the bout, the American imposed his trademark forward pressure and high-output striking, securing a third-round TKO that reinforced his elite status at 185 pounds.
Post-fight, Strickland aimed straight at the throne, calling out reigning champion Khamzat Chimaev. Yet the most compelling response came from France. Nassourdine Imavov, currently ranked No. 2 behind Dricus Du Plessis, reignited the narrative by publicly demanding a rematch.
Unfinished business
Their 2023 encounter ended in a unanimous decision for Strickland, but the rivalry never truly cooled. The bout was accompanied by sharp verbal exchanges, and the competitive gap has arguably narrowed since. Imavov has evolved—sharpening his distance management and tactical patience—while Strickland remains faithful to his identity: relentless jab, cage pressure, and psychological warfare.
The political chessboard
The scenario becomes even more intriguing if Chimaev moves up in pursuit of a second title, potentially vacating the belt. In such a case, matching the top two contenders would be the most logical competitive solution.
Speaking to Full Send MMA, Strickland brushed aside the idea of unfinished business. Yet from both a meritocratic and promotional standpoint, a rematch with Imavov carries undeniable legitimacy.
Should the middleweight title become vacant, Strickland vs Imavov II would not merely be a rematch—it would be a contest for divisional authority.
