Khamzat Chimaev, the newly crowned middleweight champion, is officially the man everyone wants to fight.
From seasoned contenders to rising stars, the list of challengers is long. But one name stands out, Nassourdine Imavov.
Not because he is the biggest name in the division, but because Khamzat publicly said he doesn’t want to fight him.
This statement shocked fans, analysts, and even fighters, because in today’s UFC landscape, title shots don’t come easy.
When a champion says no to a clear contender, people naturally start asking questions. So why is Khamzat Chimaev not interested in defending his title against Nassourdine Imavov?
The answer is awkward, personal, and unusual for high-level MMA. In an interview, when the interviewer asked Chimaev if he wanted Imavov as his next opponent, Khamzat simply said:
“No, I don’t want to fight him.”
When pressed for the reason, Khamzat replied that Imavov is from Dagestan (even though he currently lives in France) and also a fellow Muslim.
Because of that, he considers Imavov like a brother and does not want to fight him.
This explanation surprised everyone, especially because Imavov himself wants the fight.
So what is really going on? Why does this matchup make perfect sense from a competitive point of view? And will this fight eventually happen despite Khamzat’s hesitation?
Let’s break everything down clearly and systematically.
Khamzat Chimaev: A Champion With a Clear Vision
Before understanding his refusal, it’s important to understand the mindset of Khamzat Chimaev.
Ever since he entered the UFC, he has been single-minded about destroying the biggest names possible.
He doesn’t just want to stay champion; he wants to be a superstar.
Khamzat has always shown interest in:
- High-profile fighters
- Big-money events
- Legacy-building matchups
This is why Khamzat constantly calls out fighters like Alex Pereira, who is currently one of the biggest names in combat sports.
A fight against Pereira could headline a mega card, draw huge PPV numbers, and help cement Khamzat’s legacy.
This mindset plays a huge role in why he is not looking at Nassourdine Imavov right now.
Who is Nassourdine Imavov, and why does he want the Fight
Nassourdine Imavov is not the loudest name in the division, but his skill, youth, and momentum make him one of the strongest contenders.
He has proven himself against tough opponents and consistently shows a well-rounded skill set.
For Imavov:
- This is the biggest opportunity of his career.
- A title fight puts him on the global map.
- Beating Khamzat could instantly make him a superstar.
From Imavov’s point of view, there is no emotional barrier. He respects Khamzat, but he sees him as the champion standing in his way. He is ready for the challenge. He wants the belt. And he wants the platform.
This is where the contrast begins — Khamzat sees brotherhood, Imavov sees opportunity.
Khamzat’s Reason: “He Is From Dagestan, and He Is Muslim”
The UFC world is used to fighters claiming they won’t fight family members or teammates.
But Khamzat’s reason in this case is unusual and personal, especially when the two fighters never trained together and are not part of the same team.
Here’s the exact reasoning Khamzat gave:
1. Imavov is from Dagestan
Even though Imavov immigrated to France and represents France today, his roots are from Dagestan, a region that has produced countless world-class fighters.
Khamzat feels a cultural and emotional connection to that region.
2. Imavov is Muslim
Khamzat mentioned their shared faith as another reason he doesn’t want to fight him. According to Khamzat, fighting a Muslim brother doesn’t feel right to him.
3. He sees Imavov as a brother
This is the most personal part. Khamzat said he sees Imavov like a brother and prefers not to fight someone he feels a cultural and religious connection to.
This reasoning is rooted in respect, not fear. However, in a competitive sport like MMA, it creates a complicated dynamic.
But Imavov Doesn’t See It the Same Way
While Khamzat talks about brotherhood, Imavov is openly ready for the fight. He respects Khamzat but does not believe religion or nationality should stop him from competing for the title.
For Imavov:
- This is professional sport.
- Friendship or shared faith should not stop competition.
- He wants to test himself against the top fighter in the division.
Imavov has been clear that he wants the belt, and if Khamzat is the champion, then he is the target.
This difference in mindset is the root of the entire situation.
Why Khamzat Prefers Alex Pereira Instead
Khamzat loves blockbuster fights. For him, fighting Imavov doesn’t offer the same attraction as fighting a superstar like Alex Pereira.
Here’s what a fight with Pereira gives Khamzat:
- A massive PPV event
- A storyline fans already love (their rivalry)
- A chance to beat a multi-division legend
- A fight that boosts his star power globally
Imavov is extremely talented, but not yet a mainstream name. He does not bring that massive spotlight to the table.
From a business standpoint, Khamzat wants:
- Bigger money
- Bigger names
- Bigger legacy moments
So naturally, Pereira is the priority, not Imavov.
But Why Imavov vs Khamzat Actually Makes Sense Right Now
Even though Khamzat does not want the fight, it makes complete sense for the UFC and the division.
1. Imavov is a top contender
He has earned his position. Skill-wise, he matches up extremely well with Khamzat.
2. The timing is perfect
Both fighters are fresh, active, and healthy.
3. The story is strong
A respectful but competitive storyline is always good for promotion.
4. Style clash makes it exciting
Imavov’s technical striking vs Khamzat’s pressure and grappling creates a fascinating matchup.
5. It keeps the division moving
If Khamzat keeps chasing super fights, the division will remain stuck. Imavov is the logical next contender to keep things flowing.
Is Khamzat Avoiding the Fight or Just Prioritizing Something Bigger?
Many fans started saying Khamzat is “avoiding” Imavov, but that is not accurate. Khamzat has never avoided tough fights. He has fought dangerous opponents throughout his career.
This situation is more about:
- Personal belief
- Emotional connection
- Strategic planning
Khamzat wants the biggest, loudest, most talked-about fights. Imavov simply does not fit into that category — at least not yet.
What Could Change Khamzat’s Mind?
Even if Khamzat refuses now, circumstances in the UFC change quickly. Several things could force or motivate him to accept the fight:
1. UFC pressure
If the UFC mandates the fight, he may have no choice as a champion.
2. Fan demand
If fans keep asking for the matchup, UFC may push harder for it.
3. Imavov is getting a big win
If Imavov beats a major name and gains star power, the fight could suddenly become attractive.
4. Lack of other challengers
If Pereira or other big names are unavailable, Khamzat may consider Imavov next.
5. Financial incentive
A big event offer can change any fighter’s mind.
Would Their Styles Create a Great Fight? Absolutely.
If this fight happens, it would be one of the most technically exciting fights in the division.
Imavov brings:
- Sharp technical striking
- Good movement
- Smart fight IQ
- Reliable takedown defense
Khamzat brings:
- Relentless pressure
- Explosive grappling
- Power in both hands
- A champion’s mindset
This style combination guarantees action. It would not be a one-sided fight. It would test both fighters deeply.
What Fans Think About This Situation
Fans are divided.
Some understand Khamzat’s personal reasons, saying:
- “If he sees Imavov as a brother, that’s his decision.”
- “Respect and faith matter to him, and that should be respected.”
Others believe the champion should fight anyone, saying:
- “If you’re a UFC champion, you can’t pick and choose based on personal feelings.”
- “Imavov earned his shot.”
- “The division should move, not wait for special matchups.”
Both sides make valid points, which is why this situation is so widely discussed.
What Happens If Khamzat Continues Avoiding Imavov?
If Khamzat repeatedly refuses, the UFC will face a challenge. A champion cannot refuse contenders forever. It disrupts rankings, matchmaking, and title legitimacy.
Possible outcomes:
- UFC could strip or pressure him
- Imavov could fight for an interim belt
- Khamzat could be forced to take the fight
However, the UFC usually finds a way to balance business and competition, so the solution will likely depend on timing and market interest.
Will This Fight Eventually Happen? Most Likely, Yes.
Even if Khamzat is not interested right now, the pressure of the division and UFC matchmaking tends to bring logical fights together.
- It may not be his next fight.
- It may not be a fight he wants.
- But it is a fight that makes sense competitively.
And when a fight makes sense, UFC often finds a way to make it happen.
Final Thoughts: The Awkward but Honest Reason
Khamzat Chimaev is not afraid of Nassourdine Imavov; that narrative is incorrect.
His reason for refusing the fight is emotional and personal. He sees Imavov as a cultural and religious brother, and he does not want to fight someone he feels connected to.
But Imavov does not see things the same way. He wants to compete. He wants the belt. He wants the moment.
Khamzat wants bigger, flashier, legacy-defining fights, which is why he keeps calling out Alex Pereira instead.
However, in terms of logic, timing, and divisional flow, Khamzat Chimaev vs Nassourdine Imavov makes perfect sense right now.
And because of that, even if Khamzat refuses today, the UFC world fully expects that one day, these two talented fighters will meet inside the Octagon.