Sean Strickland Critiques Khamzat Chimaev's Inactivity Ahead of UFC Houston

Sean Strickland is set to return to the Octagon on February 21, 2026, facing rising contender Anthony Hernandez in the main event of UFC Houston. This fight is pivotal for Strickland, who aims to re-establish himself in the middleweight title conversation after losing the championship to Dricus Du Plessis in February 2025. Strickland has expressed skepticism about the UFC's handling of current champion Khamzat Chimaev, particularly regarding Chimaev's infrequent fight schedule.

Sean Strickland claims he is the only middleweight who could beat Khamzat ChimaevSean Strickland: ‘I’m probably the only one that could beat’ Khamzat Chimaev but he only fights ‘once a year’Sean Strickland trashes inactive champ Khamzat Chimaev: ‘The guy doesn’t need to fight’

Strickland has openly criticized Chimaev for his inactivity since winning the middleweight title in August 2025. Chimaev, who has fought only six times since joining the UFC in 2020, has yet to schedule a title defense. Strickland remarked, “It’s kind of weird what the UFC did with Chimaev... You brought a guy in that fights once a year... He doesn’t need to fight.” He further questioned Chimaev's reluctance to face fellow contender Nassourdine Imavov, suggesting that the champion is avoiding competition.

Sean Strickland claims he is the only middleweight who could beat Khamzat Chimaev

Strickland has highlighted the financial implications of waiting for a title shot versus actively competing. He stated, “From a pure money perspective, you would make more money not fighting for the belt than you would fighting for the belt.” He believes that continuing to fight, even against tough opponents, is more lucrative than waiting for Chimaev to defend his title. Strickland's comments reflect a broader concern among fighters about the economic realities of the sport, particularly when champions are inactive.

Sean Strickland claims he is the only middleweight who could beat Khamzat Chimaev

While Strickland is confident in his abilities, he faces a formidable opponent in Hernandez, who is known for his wrestling and submission skills. Former UFC fighter Krzysztof Jotko has expressed doubts about Strickland's chances, suggesting that Hernandez could pose significant challenges. Jotko stated, “Hernandez is a really, really dangerous guy... I think Strickland has his big fights behind him already.”

Sean Strickland claims he is the only middleweight who could beat Khamzat Chimaev

Strickland has made it clear that his focus is on making money through fighting rather than waiting for title opportunities. He stated, “I’ll make significantly more money not fighting for a belt or waiting for Chimaev’s pinky to feel better.” This sentiment underscores the pragmatic approach many fighters take in a sport where financial stability is often uncertain.

Sean Strickland: ‘I’m probably the only one that could beat’ Khamzat Chimaev but he only fights ‘once a year’

• “It’s kind of weird what the UFC did with Chimaev,” — Sean Strickland, UFC Fighter

Sean Strickland: ‘I’m probably the only one that could beat’ Khamzat Chimaev but he only fights ‘once a year’

• “Now the middleweight division man, from a pure money perspective, you would make more money not fighting for the belt than you would fighting for the belt.” — Sean Strickland, UFC Fighter

Sean Strickland: ‘I’m probably the only one that could beat’ Khamzat Chimaev but he only fights ‘once a year’

• “Maybe I’m wrong but I think Strickland has his big fights behind him already,” he added.” — Krzysztof Jotko, Former UFC Fighter

Sean Strickland claims he is the only middleweight who could beat Khamzat Chimaev

As Strickland prepares for his fight against Hernandez, the outcome could significantly influence the middleweight title landscape. A victory may position him as a leading contender for Chimaev's title, while a loss could further complicate his path back to championship contention.

Sean Strickland claims he is the only middleweight who could beat Khamzat Chimaev