Khamzat Chimaev accused by UFC star of aiming for soft targets: "He’s a clown"

Tensions are rising in the UFC landscape after Sean Strickland delivered a statement performance at UFC Houston. The outspoken American stunned fans at the Toyota Center by knocking out Anthony Hernandez, snapping his opponent’s eight-fight winning streak and closing the card in emphatic fashion.

But it was what followed that grabbed even more attention.

In a backstage interview with Full Send MMA, Strickland turned his focus toward reigning middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, launching a scathing critique of the Chechen star’s recent ambitions.

Sean Strickland questions Chimaev’s ambitions

Rather than focusing on defending his current title, Chimaev has reportedly been eyeing bigger challenges — including a potential move up to light heavyweight.

The champion has teased a pursuit of Alex Pereira’s gold for months, and recent rumors have linked him to a possible clash with Jiri Prochazka.

Strickland, however, believes the move signals something entirely different.

“He’s a clown,” Strickland said. “You fought once in the middleweight division and you’re moving up to find an easier fight?

“You’re picking a really easy path. You’re not a double champ. You’ve won a belt once.”

The remarks reflect growing skepticism among contenders who believe Khamzat Chimaev should solidify his reign before chasing history in another division.

“A clown show” if granted

Sean Strickland did not hold back when discussing the possibility of the UFC approving Chimaev’s request to pursue light heavyweight gold.

“If the UFC grants that request, it would be a f—ing clown show,” he added. “He doesn’t deserve it.”

The comments underscore a broader debate within the promotion: Should champions clear out their division before seeking double-champ status, or is the pursuit of legacy fights part of the sport’s natural evolution?

What’s next for Khamzat Chimaev?

Chimaev’s ambitions have undoubtedly stirred intrigue, but they have also sparked criticism from fellow fighters who question the timing. With fresh contenders emerging and rivalries intensifying, the pressure is mounting on the champion to define his next move.

Whether Khamzat Chimaev doubles down on his light heavyweight aspirations or returns to defend his title, one thing is clear — the UFC narrative just gained another layer of tension.