Khamzat Chimaev has sent a cryptic message to Sean Strickland on X following his split decision defeat at UFC 328, complicating the narrative around his reported move to light heavyweight.
“See you again soon.”
The post came after what appeared to be a surprisingly cordial conclusion to one of the most heated feuds in recent UFC history. Following weeks of threats, insults, and a kick during the press conference faceoff, Chimaev and Strickland were respectful after the final bell, with Chimaev placing the belt around Strickland’s waist in a gesture that surprised many observers.
The tweet’s meaning is unclear given the context. Dana White revealed at the post-fight press conference that Chimaev approached him after the fight and stated he wants to move to light heavyweight and does not want to fight at middleweight any longer. Chimaev had already teased the move publicly before the title fight and appeared to struggle significantly at the weigh-ins, with Strickland publicly accusing him of nearly missing weight.
An immediate rematch is technically possible if Chimaev changes course, though Strickland enters his second reign with a healthy queue of contenders including rematches with Nassourdine Imavov and Brendan Allen, as well as fresh matchups against Caio Borralho and Joe Pyfer. Given Chimaev has fought only once per year since 2023, a definitive answer on his next move may take some time to emerge.
Strickland’s split decision victory was scored 48-47 on two judges’ cards, making him a two-time middleweight champion and matching Israel Adesanya as the only fighters to accomplish that feat at 185 pounds.