Chimaev Seeks UFC 328 Rematch After 46-Pound Weight Cut, Brother Says Body Shut Down
Updated
Updated · MMA Fighting · May 12
Chimaev Seeks UFC 328 Rematch After 46-Pound Weight Cut, Brother Says Body Shut Down
9 articles · Updated · MMA Fighting · May 12
Artur Chimaev said Khamzat’s team has requested a Sean Strickland rematch for Abu Dhabi in October after the former champion’s split-decision loss in his first middleweight title defense.
2.7 pounds from the 185-pound limit, Chimaev’s body "shut down" during the cut, Artur said, forcing a one-hour stop because of oxygen deprivation and leaving him compromised for fight night.
231 pounds to 185 was the challenge after UFC plans to face Jiri Prochazka at 205 were scrapped for a Strickland defense, Artur said; by fight time, Chimaev had regained only about 11 to 13 pounds.
Arman Tsarukyan recently said Chimaev cut about 46 pounds, reinforcing long-running concerns over his weight management after a 7-pound miss at UFC 279 in 2022 reshuffled that card.
Dana White has said Chimaev told him he plans to move to light heavyweight, but Chimaev’s camp says an immediate second fight with Strickland is now the only goal.
Why would the UFC deny an immediate rematch to its star Chimaev after such a controversial and close title fight?
With his undefeated aura shattered, should Chimaev abandon the rematch and solve his cardio issues at light heavyweight?
Did a brutal weight cut cost Chimaev his title, or has the blueprint to beat the 'unstoppable' fighter been exposed?