Middleweight contender Caio Borralho believes the UFC could strip Sean Strickland of his championship if a next title defense is not booked soon.
Strickland’s Contract Standoff
Strickland captured the middleweight crown for a second time by securing a split decision victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May. Although a rematch against Nassourdine Imavov is rumored for early 2027, Strickland currently does not have an official fight scheduled. The champion has recently expressed dissatisfaction with his fighter pay, considering vacating the title to fulfill his contract at light heavyweight and pursue a boxing match against Jake Paul.
Borralho stated to MMA Junkie that the promotion will not allow Strickland to hold up the division. Mentioning the UFC’s past handling of other champions, Borralho noted that the organization quickly creates interim titles when fighters decline or delay bouts. He suggested the promotion could set up an interim championship fight involving Imavov if Strickland continues his current stance.
Borralho’s Path to a Title Shot
While the top of the division sorts itself out, Borralho aims to solidify his own championship credentials at UFC 334 when he meets Yousri Belgaroui. Borralho holds a record of 18-2 MMA and 8-1 UFC, matching Belgaroui’s 18-2 MMA and 8-1 UFC statistics. A decisive victory, particularly by knockout or submission, could position him directly for the next title opportunity.
Borralho noted that his name is firmly in the conversation due to his strength of schedule against tough opponents in the weight class. Pointing to the landscape of the division, he explained that other contenders face different trajectories with upcoming bouts or booking preferences, leaving a major opening for his own title aspirations following his upcoming performance on November 14.
