UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland is reportedly targeted to defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov in early 2027. The news follows the resolution of Strickland’s recent contract dispute with the promotion.
Potential February Rematch in Florida
As reported by sports.yahoo.com, MMA Junkie journalist Mike Bohn revealed on his podcast with Luke Thomas that Strickland and Imavov are expected to face each other in the first quarter of 2027. Bohn stated, “It’s going to be Imavov next; I heard it may even be signed or close to being signed for February somewhere in Florida.”
Kevin K also reported on the prospective bout, with UFC 337 cited as a potential event for the matchup. While contracts are still being finalized, the UFC could officially announce the fight during UFC 334 on November 14 in New York City or at UFC 335 on December 12 in Las Vegas.
Resolution of Contract Disputes
The reported title fight comes after Strickland publicly voiced frustrations regarding his previous contract situation on social media. Strickland had criticized the promotion’s compensation practices, suggested a potential move to the light heavyweight division, and mentioned exploring a boxing match against Jake Paul.
The dispute was resolved prior to UFC 328, where Strickland signed a new six-fight contract reportedly worth more than $1 million per fight. UFC CEO Dana White subsequently confirmed that relations with the middleweight champion were on positive terms.
Strickland and Imavov previously met in January 2023 at UFC Fight Night 217, where Strickland accepted a light heavyweight bout on short notice and secured a unanimous decision victory. Strickland later captured the middleweight championship against Israel Adesanya at UFC 293.
Strickland has not fought since earning a split-decision victory against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May, after which a shoulder injury sidelined him. Imavov enters the potential rematch following a win against Caio Borralho at UFC Paris last year.
