Nassourdine Imavov (17-4 MMA, 9-2 UFC) threatened to leave Sean Strickland "dead inside the cage" after calling him out following his win over Anthony Hernandez at UFC Fight Night 267. Despite both fighters eyeing a title shot against Khamzat Chimaev, Imavov has personal issues with Strickland due to his bigoted comments toward Muslims.
Since losing to Strickland in January 2023, Imavov has gone unbeaten with three consecutive victories against Brendan Allen, Israel Adesanya, and Caio Borralho. "I have hate in my heart for him," Imavov stated. "I don't like the way he speaks. I don't like the way he thinks. I don't like the way he speaks about my people."