Fighting Nerd: Sean Strickland Has The Best Chance to Uncrown Khamzat Chimaev

MMA fighter Caio Borralho of Team Fighting Nerds has expressed his belief that Sean Strickland is more likely to defeat UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev compared to top contender Nassourdine Imavov. Imavov, who previously defeated Borralho in 2025, is currently on a five-fight winning streak.

In a recent discussion with MMA Junkie's Mike Bohn, Borralho commended Strickland's impressive victory at UFC Houston, where the former champion secured a TKO win against Anthony Hernandez in the third round, re-establishing himself as a strong contender for a title opportunity.

Caio Borralho Thinks Sean Strickland Would Fare Better Against Khamzat Chimaev Than Nassourdine Imavov

When pressed during the same interview to assess the likelihood of either Nassourdine Imavov or Sean Strickland dethroning Khamzat Chimaev, Borralho favored Strickland.

Despite Imavov, known as “The Sniper,” being the one to halt Borralho’s undefeated streak in the UFC, Borralho maintained that his former training partner, “Tarzan” (Strickland), stands a stronger chance against the Chechen-born Emirati fighter. Borralho elaborated:

“I believe Imavov is the superior striker, quicker and more agile. I've experienced fighting one and training with the other, noting their distinct styles. However, I don't think Imavov would handle Khamzat's wrestling effectively. This is where I see Strickland having an advantage. While I'm unsure if Strickland could out-wrestle Khamzat, I think he could defend takedowns more effectively, potentially tiring Khamzat. Nevertheless, we all acknowledge Khamzat's wrestling is exceptionally high-level. So, in response to whether I think he would perform better than Imavov, my answer is yes.”

Borralho further asserted that Sean Strickland's precise jab, constant forward aggression, unconventional striking methods, and his knack for controlling the fight's tempo and thwarting takedowns could present a significant threat to the reigning UFC middleweight champion.

In related news, Borralho himself recently returned to his winning form at UFC 326, securing a decisive unanimous decision victory against Reinier de Ridder.

Following this win, "The Natural" has set his sights on former champion Dricus du Plessis. During his post-fight interview in the octagon this past weekend, Borralho openly challenged with:

“I have a specific opponent in mind, Joe. Dricus du Plessis, where are you?”