Ex-UFC star who grappled with Khamzat Chimaev gives cryptic prediction for Sean Strickland or Dricus du Plessis fight

Former UFC fighter Luke Rockhold shared insightful comments on Khamzat Chimaev’s potential matchup with the winner of Dricus du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland. The middleweight title fight is scheduled to take place on Feb. 8 in Sydney.

While highlighting contrasting skill sets, Rockhold stopped short of predicting whether 'Borz' would excel or struggle against either Strickland or du Plessis, adding intrigue with his cryptic remarks.

After demolishing Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, Chimaev is already back in training and has his eyes on the middleweight title.

Rockhold expressed his thoughts when asked if he sees Chimaev as the future middleweight champion. He said:

''It's a tough test, I mean him (referring to Chimaev) vs Strickland is sexier, I think they have a history, and it's more of a builder fight, I mean the UFC is probably is waiting for that, he's a straightforward guy and he's not gonna play any games."

Du Plessis and Strickland are set for a rematch at UFC 312, rekindling their rivalry after the South African claimed a split-decision victory in their first fight in January 2024. It seems that Rockhold believes a matchup between Strickland and Chimaev would be more likely than one with du Plessis.

Rockhold also reflected on Chimaev’s fight against Kamaru Usman at UFC 294, saying:

"We know when he met Kamaru, and if he doesn't get what he wants, you know, relaxation is the true sign of a champion, we will see how the kid grows, tough, very tough kid."

At UFC 294, Chimaev dominated Kamaru Usman with a decisive performance, showcasing his superior grappling. Chimaev secured an early back take in the first round, establishing control and setting the tone for the fight.

Chimaev and Strickland promise to be fascinating clashes of styles. Strickland’s sharp, striking, high-volume offense would be a perfect counterpoint to Chimaev’s relentless grappling and ground control.

Check out Luke Rockhold's comments below (4:35):

---

Khamzat Chimaev reveals his next move

Dana White's confirmation of a title shot for Khamzat Chimaev has set the stage for an exciting 2025, with the Chechen native sharing ambitious goals for the year ahead.

In a recent interview with Aslanbek Badaev, Chimaev said:

"After the Strickland vs Du Plessis, I will have a fight in May or June against the champion, and then fight in October in Abu Dhabi, win and defend the belt, and those are the plans for this year."