Why the UFC Chose Strickland vs Chimaev (And What Happens to Imavov?)

Sean Strickland vs Khamzat Chimaev is officially happening… but that raises a much bigger question.

What happened to Nassourdine Imavov?

For months the assumption inside the MMA world was that Imavov was next in line for the title shot at middleweight. He beat top contenders, nobody was calling him out, and the whispers inside the locker room suggested the fight was already locked in.

Then suddenly the UFC announces Strickland vs Chimaev.

So what changed?

Chael breaks down:

• Why the UFC pivoted away from Imavov• The strange clues that hinted this fight was coming• The rumors about Chimaev leaving middleweight• Why Vegas opened Chimaev as a 6-to-1 favorite• And why the odds might actually be wrong

Plus — where Imavov goes next, and why Kyle Borralho may suddenly be in the most important fight of his career.

0:00 Strickland vs Chimaev Announced
0:50 Why Imavov Was Expected to Get the Fight
2:13 Chimaev Visa Rumors Explained
3:32 Strickland vs Chimaev Odds (6 to 1)
4:44 Can Strickland Stop Chimaev’s Wrestling?
6:05 Why Strickland Might Be the Right Opponent
6:40 What Happens to Imavov Now?

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