TLDR
- Khamzat Chimaev has confirmed Nassourdine Imavov as his first middleweight title challenger
- The fight won’t happen until after Ramadan ends on March 19, 2026, due to Chimaev’s foot surgery
- Imavov is on a six-fight unbeaten streak and told the UFC he only wants a title shot
- Chimaev advised Imavov to work on his wrestling before their matchup
- Both fighters have publicly acknowledged the fight on social media
Khamzat Chimaev will defend his UFC middleweight title against Nassourdine Imavov after Ramadan concludes in March 2026. The champion made the announcement on social media following his foot surgery.
Chimaev won the 185-pound belt in August at UFC 319 with a dominant performance against Dricus Du Plessis. He has maintained an undefeated record of 15-0 in his professional career. The champion is currently recovering from foot surgery that has delayed his return to competition.
Imavov has positioned himself as the top contender at middleweight. The French fighter holds a record of 17-4 and is currently ranked number two in the division. He is riding a six-fight unbeaten streak in the UFC.
The contender’s recent victories include wins over several top middleweights. He defeated Caio Borralho in September in front of his home crowd at UFC Paris. His winning streak also features victories over former champion Israel Adesanya, Brendan Allen, Jared Cannonier, and Roman Dolidze.
Imavov made his intentions clear on social media this week. He stated he had discussions with the UFC and informed them he only wants a title shot. The fighter said he is willing to wait for the opportunity.
Training Camp Begins Early
Chimaev responded to Imavov’s statements with advice for his upcoming opponent. The champion told Imavov to use the time before their fight to work on his wrestling. He addressed Imavov as “bratishka,” which means little brother in Russian.
The exchange between the two fighters suggests the matchup is likely to happen. Both men have publicly acknowledged each other as future opponents. The UFC has not officially announced the fight yet.
Chimaev attended UFC Qatar recently where he was spotted supporting Arman Tsarukyan. At the event, he got into an altercation with Ian Machado Garry. The champion’s appearance sparked questions about when he would return to the octagon.
The foot surgery has prevented Chimaev from competing before Ramadan. Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide from February 17 to March 19, 2026. The champion will not fight during this period.
Contender Patience Pays Off
Imavov has been passed over for title opportunities in the past. He believed he deserved shots that went to other fighters. The French contender is taking a different approach this time by waiting for his chance.
Other contenders were in consideration for the first title shot. Jon Jones had pushed for a rematch with Chimaev after the champion beat him. Reinier de Ridder was also on a winning streak before Brendan Allen ended it.
Imavov’s win over Borralho in September strengthened his case for a title fight. Chimaev complimented both fighters after the match, calling it a good fight. The champion’s acknowledgment came shortly after Imavov’s victory.
The middleweight division will wait until spring 2026 for the title fight. Imavov stated he is not used to waiting but understands the circumstances. He emphasized that great things require great preparation.
Chimaev holds the number one ranking in the USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie middleweight rankings. Imavov is ranked number three in the same system. The fight will determine the direction of the middleweight division for 2026.
