Sean Strickland has accused Khamzat Chimaev of weakening the UFC middleweight division through prolonged inactivity.
The former UFC middleweight champion made the remarks while addressing the current landscape at 185 pounds and the repeated gaps between Chimaev’s fights.
Strickland argued that limited activity at the top of the rankings has slowed divisional momentum and diminished the value of pursuing the championship.
Strickland says Chimaev’s inactivity is hurting the division
Sean Strickland stated in a recent interview that Khamzat Chimaev’s infrequent appearances are damaging the UFC middleweight division.
He maintained that extended layoffs and recurring disruptions have stalled the title picture and made the belt less compelling from both a competitive and financial perspective.
“You brought a guy in that fights once a year… He’s just gonna sit on that f—— belt and wait until they force him to fight.”
“You would make more money not fighting for the belt than you would fighting for the belt. The belt is not even in my brain anymore. I’ll make significantly more money just fighting. Every time this f—— guy fights, he has a mysterious injury.”
The comments underline Strickland’s view that consistent activity from leading contenders is vital to preserving urgency and legitimacy within the division.
Strickland backs himself as Chimaev’s toughest matchup
During the same discussion, Strickland also evaluated a potential bout with Chimaev and outlined why he believes he presents a difficult challenge.
He voiced confidence in his own skill set while questioning the way Chimaev has been positioned in the division.
“That’d be a big fight. I think I’m probably the only one that could beat Chimaev. I honestly think Fluffy is a better wrestler than Chimaev. Over five rounds, Fluffy is a better wrestler than Chimaev.“
“It’s kind of weird what the UFC did with Chimaev. You brought a guy that fights once a year — the guy doesn’t need to fight. He’s best friends with a warlord.”
Strickland’s remarks blend pointed criticism of Chimaev’s activity level with firm belief in his own ability should the matchup materialise.
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