Khamzat Chimaev willing to chase Sean Strickland

Khamzat Chimaev says he is willing to move up in weight to pursue a rematch with Sean Strickland, telling Red Corner MMA he would follow the UFC middleweight champion wherever he competes.

Chimaev made the comments after wrestling Robbie Lawler at Real American Freestyle Wrestling 14 on Friday, October 23. He beat the 44-year-old by technical fall in an early stoppage, keeping his unbeaten run on the RAF mats intact. Chimaev has now turned his attention back to his next UFC fight.

Chimaev says Strickland rematch can happen at any weight

Chimaev said he would go as high as light heavyweight or heavyweight to make the matchup happen. He framed himself as the pursuer and Strickland as the one avoiding the fight, adding that he is willing to do it for the pay he wants.

The two previously fought in March, in a bout Chimaev described as close. His weight-cut difficulties before that contest also give the UFC a potential storyline for a rematch, the source report noted.

Strickland's UFC contract dispute delays his return

Strickland has been at odds with the UFC over fighter pay and has sought changes to his contract. Dana White rejected that request, saying Strickland signed a new long-term deal in March. Strickland has threatened to disrupt the remaining fights on his contract so he can leave and pursue other opportunities.

Chimaev has argued that a rematch is a way for Strickland to earn the money he wants. Strickland had been expected to defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov, but the contract dispute has delayed that fight.

There is no confirmed date for a Chimaev-Strickland rematch, and Strickland’s return timeline is unclear. The source report also does not say whether Strickland will resolve his disagreement with the UFC.