Sean Strickland Set to Defend Title Against Nassourdine Imavov

Sean Strickland is set to defend his middleweight title for the first time against Nassourdine Imavov, who is ranked No. 3, at UFC 335 on December 12 in Las Vegas.

Strickland won the title from Israel Adesanya in September 2023, lost it to Dricus du Plessis in January 2024, and regained it with a split decision over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May 2024. He has not yet achieved a successful title defense.

Imavov comes into this matchup on a five-fight winning streak, having defeated notable opponents including Roman Dolidze and Jared Cannonier. The two fighters previously faced each other in January 2023, where Strickland won by decision at light heavyweight.