Nassourdine Imavov has revealed that the UFC had two potential dates in mind for a title fight against Khamzat Chimaev, but the matchup was derailed due to Chimaev’s injury. Imavov, who has secured five consecutive victories against top-10 opponents, is eager for his chance at the middleweight title.
In a conversation with MMA Fighting, the 29-year-old contender shared that the UFC aimed to schedule the fight for either December or February. “No final news yet,” Imavov stated, indicating that discussions were ongoing but no contract had been signed. He recalled a meeting in Doha, Qatar, with UFC executives Hunter Campbell and Mick Maynard, where they expressed a strong desire to see the fight take place soon.
Chimaev recently captured the middleweight title with a decisive victory over Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 on August 15, 2025. In a December interview with ESPN, he acknowledged the complications of a potential bout with Imavov, citing their friendship and the political sensitivities surrounding their backgrounds. “He’s a good guy,” Chimaev remarked, expressing his reluctance to fight someone he knows well. He added, “But if UFC wants it, I’m never going to say no.”
Imavov responded in agreement, noting, “We are in the same position, we know each other, and everything.” He emphasized that if the UFC decides to proceed with the fight, both he and Chimaev would be willing to step into the cage. “It’s in the hands of the UFC,” Imavov said, reiterating their mutual interest in the title bout.
The middleweight title landscape has become increasingly complex. Following Imavov’s dominant decision win over Caio Borralho in September, Sean Strickland’s recent victory over Anthony Hernandez has led to speculation that he might move ahead of Imavov in title contention. Additionally, Chimaev has expressed interest in moving up to the light heavyweight division, targeting the current champion, Alex Pereira, for a potential superfight.
Imavov remarked on Chimaev’s desire to transition to the 205-pound category, stating, “I know him, he’s really heavy for the middleweight division.” He acknowledged UFC President Dana White’s stance that fighters should defend their titles before moving to another division, adding that Chimaev’s star power might allow for exceptions. “It will be the choice of the UFC,” he noted, ultimately leaving the decision to the promotion.
As the situation evolves, fans and fighters alike await confirmation of the title fight between Imavov and Chimaev, a matchup that has the potential to electrify the middleweight division. With both fighters ready to compete, the next steps will depend on the UFC’s announcements in the coming weeks.
