Khamzat Chimaev’s 205lb hopes addressed by Dana White after Sean Strickland latest win

Dana White has shared his thoughts on what should be next for the UFC middleweight champion.

Khamzat Chimaev, who took the 185lb belt from Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 last August, has not fought since then.

He recently hinted at a move to light heavyweight, posting ‘205’ on X.

White was asked about Chimaev’s weight hint after UFC Houston on Saturday night.

Dana White wants Khamzat Chimaev to defend his belt

Sean Strickland scored a third-round knockout against Anthony Hernandez in the main event at UFC Houston.

After the fight, the former middleweight champion made it clear he wants Chimaev next.

White did not comment on whether that is a fight he is interested in making but did address rumours about ‘Borz’ possibly moving up in weight.

When asked about the Chechen fighter’s potential move to light heavyweight, he replied: “I’d like to see him defend his title at that weight first.

“Yeah, I’d like to see him defend his title before he talks about jumping around.

During his post-fight interview, Strickland used some strong words towards Chimaev, referring to him as a ‘Chechen w—-’.

He later spoke to the media backstage, explaining why he does not respect the current champion.

“I made him quit training,” the former middleweight champion said.

“We were doing positional grappling. He started on my back, and I let him choke me.

“When I walk into a gym, I find the biggest, baddest motherf—er.

“Every time Chimaev walked into the gym, he would find the smallest, lowest-level pro.

“Chimaev is a f—ing bully.”