BUZZ Strickland vs. Imavov 2 reportedly set for February in Florida; Chimaev vows to chase

Sean Strickland's next fight looks settled, and it is not the one Khamzat Chimaev wants. The champion's first defense of his second reign is reportedly a rematch with Nassourdine Imavov, while Chimaev keeps saying he will hunt Strickland wherever he goes.

On his podcast The Bohnfire, MMA Junkie's Mike Bohn said the UFC is planning the fight for February in Florida. "I've heard it's maybe even signed or close to signed for February for somewhere in Florida so I think this fight is happening." Host Luke Thomas said he had heard similar. Several outlets name UFC 337 as the likely card, but that is not confirmed, and the UFC has not said anything.

The date would end a stall. Strickland, 35, had been expected to headline UFC 335 in Las Vegas in December, but a pay dispute pushed that plan back, and Bloody Elbow says the issue appears to be solved. Toronto's UFC 336 was never an option, since Strickland has said he will never fight in Canada again. Derek Brunson, who left the UFC in 2023 and now fights in BKFC, backed the promotion, telling Bloody Elbow that Strickland signed a ten-fight deal and should have bet on himself. Other outlets say the deal was six fights, so the length is unclear.

Chimaev, 32, lost the belt to Strickland by split decision at UFC 328 in May. He told Red Corner MMA he would follow Strickland to light heavyweight or heavyweight, calling himself the hunter and Strickland "a chicken running away." Nothing shows Strickland plans to leave middleweight. Chimaev is also busy elsewhere: he beat Robbie Lawler at RAF 14 on Oct. 27 and is booked against Colby Covington at RAF Abu Dhabi on Nov. 14.

Strickland beat Imavov, 31, by unanimous decision in January 2023, taking that fight on short notice at light heavyweight. Imavov is French and last won against Caio Borralho at UFC Paris. A rematch with Chimaev would likely have to wait for the winner in Florida.

Watch for an official UFC announcement, which some outlets expect around UFC 334 on Nov. 14 or UFC 335 in December, and for any reply from Strickland.