[REVISION HISTORY]

UFC middleweight title rematch negotiations expand

Updated 9 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-10-10 04:55 UTC → 2026-10-10 19:19 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Negotiations for the UFC middleweight title rematch between Nassourdine Imavov and Sean Strickland have collapsed, resulting in the bout being removed from the UFC 335 card. While the matchup was expected to headline the December 12 event in Las Vegas, Strickland indicated that a pay dispute was the primary reason the fight did not materialize. Consequently, the UFC moved a BMF title fight between Charles Oliveira and Diego Lopes into the main event slot. In an attempt to resolve the impasse, Imavov proposed a January matchup by offering to put $500,000 of his own money on the line. Khamzat Chimaev also entered the fray, offering to personally pay Strickland $1 million to secure a rematch. Strickland has since escalated his stance, threatening to vacate his middleweight title and leave the promotion. He has expressed frustration over pay disparities compared to stars like Conor McGregor and boxer Conor Benn, while also noting that his body is struggling with the rigors of MMA training. He suggested a move to the light heavyweight division or a transition to boxing, where he believes financial incentives are superior. Boxer Jake Paul has invited Strickland to contact Most Valuable Promotions for a potential bout. Strickland has further alleged that the UFC uses title opportunities as leverage to force athletes into multi-fight deals, claiming he was pressured to sign a six-fight agreement prior to his championship bout against Chimaev. He argued that insufficient pay forces champions to compete past their physical prime. Former champion Dricus du Plessis predicted Strickland would still successfully defend his belt against Imavov despite the contractual uncertainty. In response to potential boxing crossovers, such as a fight against Jai Opetaia, UFC CEO Dana White dismissed the idea, stating he does not believe such a matchup would go well.

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