“I’ll Crush This Guy” – Nassourdine Imavov Vows to Take Revenge Against Sean Strickland for 2023 Defeat

#2 ranked middleweight contender Nassourdine Imavov vows to avenge his 2023 loss to controversial middleweight Sean Strickland.

“I’ll Crush This Guy” – Nassourdine Imavov Vows to Take Revenge Against Sean Strickland for 2023 Defeat

Nassourdine Imavov wants to avenge Sean Strickland loss (via Bloody Elbow, MMA Fighting)

In Short
  • Nassourdine Imavov aims for revenge against Sean Strickland after a 2023 defeat.
  • Imavov is currently ranked #2 in the middleweight division and remains undefeated since his loss to Strickland.
  • He is preparing for a potential title shot against Khamzat Chimaev, expected to be his first defense upon return.

Nassourdine Imavov has risen to prominence in the UFC, representing France with roots in Dagestan. Fighters from this region are usually wrestlers, but Imavov has shown exceptional striking, setting him apart. This mix of wrestling and striking fueled his rise, though he has faced setbacks, including a 2023 loss to Sean Strickland. Recently, he signaled his intent to seek revenge for that defeat in a future bout.

Imavov faced Strickland on January 14, 2023, at UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas, stepping in after Kelvin Gastelum withdrew due to injury. The fight was contested at light heavyweight, and Strickland secured a unanimous decision victory after five rounds. Since that bout, Imavov has remained focused on a rematch, repeatedly calling out Strickland and adjusting his training and fight strategy to avenge the defeat.

After defeating Israel Adesanya for the middleweight title at UFC 293 in 2023,  Strickland lost the belt to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 297. He later lost the rematch at UFC 312 in February 2025. The controversial middleweight is now set to return on February 21, against Anthony Hernandez. Ahead of the fight, the UFC shared highlights of Strickland’s win over Imavov, leading to the Frenchman’s focus on a rematch.

Make no mistakes, under normal conditions, I’ll crush this guy! Mark my words.

Nassourdine Imavov via X

While Strickland’s recent run has been inconsistent, Imavov has remained undefeated and steadily rising in the middleweight ranks. He is riding a winning streak with victories over the likes of Roman Dolidze, Jared Cannonier, and Brendan Allen. In September 2025, he cemented his place in the UFC middleweight top three by ending the previously undefeated streak of Caio Borralho via unanimous decision.

Strickland had previously downplayed Imavov’s win over Borralho, claiming it was influenced by Borralho’s double weight cut. Borralho had served as a backup for the UFC 319 title fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus Du Plessis, requiring him to cut weight twice in a short period. Strickland suggested the strain affected Borralho’s performance, diminishing the significance of Imavov’s victory.

One factor shaping the middleweight division is Sean Strickland’s continued push for a title shot against newly crowned champion Khamzat Chimaev. Meanwhile, Nassourdine Imavov is ranked #2 in the division and is widely considered the top contender for the middleweight title. His undefeated streak, recent victories, and dominant performances have positioned him as the leading challenger.

Nassourdine Imavov makes a bold prediction for 2026

One of the major highlights of Nassourdine Imavov’s career came on February 1, 2025, at UFC Fight Night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, when he defeated Israel Adesanya by TKO. The fight ended 30 seconds into the second round after Imavov landed a decisive right hand and follow-up punches. This victory marked a turning point in his career, elevating him among the top middleweight contenders.

Nassourdine Imavov
Nassourdine Imavov (via Instagram)

Since his victory over Adesanya, Imavov has gained wider recognition and an increase in popularity. His UFC performances and rising profile have attracted new fans and followers on social media. He recently posted a video of himself training, showing sharp, fast striking and technical drills, 48 hours before the Adesanya bout. The Frenchman referenced his focus and outlined his plans for 2026 to maintain the same level of preparation.

48 hours before Adesanya vs Imavov. Riadh, Saudi Arabia One year ago, we took down a legend. This year, we’re stepping into history. InshaAllah.

Nassourdine Imavov via X

The French middleweight’s plans for 2026 are clearly centered on a shot at middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev. While Chimaev is sidelined until mid‑2026, he has indicated that Imavov will be the fighter selected for his first title defense upon return. This positions Nassourdine Imavov as the leading contender in the division and underscores his focus on maintaining momentum from past victories.

Also Read: