Robert Whittaker baffled by UFC brass snubbing Khamzat Chimaev over Sean Strickland at UFC 312

Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker doesn't agree with UFC giving a title shot to Sean Strickland ahead of Khamzat Chimaev.


Robert Whittaker baffled by UFC brass snubbing Khamzat Chimaev over Sean Strickland at UFC 312

Robert Whittaker questions Sean Strickland's title contention over Khamzat Chimaev (via Imago)

The UFC middleweight division has seen significant shifts in 2024. Since Dricus Du Plessis claimed the championship, the top contenders have been vying intensely for a shot at the title. Among them, Khamzat Chimaev made a strong case by defeating former champion Robert Whittaker. However, the UFC opted to grant the next opportunity to Sean Strickland, keeping the division as unpredictable as ever.

Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev was one of the most hyped matches in recent times. In the fight, the ‘Borz’ put on a clinical performance by submitting Whittaker in the very first round. The Australian superstar, however, didn’t understand UFC’s matchmaking process as they gave Strickland the title shot. 

He’s(Khamzat) always kinda been in the title discussion. He’s undefeated…It’s hard to argue against giving him the shot at this point. Especially, if you are giving Sean Strickland a title shot like that.

Robert Whittaker via MMArcade Podcast 

Though Dana White had already talked about Strickland getting his rematch against DDP, some fans weren’t happy about it. Du Plessis also raised questions as he wanted to defend his title against a fresh opponent like Chimaev. The champion stated in a recent interview that the unsuccessful matchmaking was mostly due to poor timing.

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Strickland has always been vocal about getting robbed against DDP in their title fight. Since then, he has beaten Paulo Costa to solidify his position as one of the top contenders. Now after playing the waiting game, the ‘Tarzan’ has finally got what he wanted. 

Sean Strickland slams Khamzat Chimaev for trolling 

Sean Strickland’s relationship with Khamzat Chimaev has taken a 180-degree turn since they first met. Initially, the pair used to train together; however, with time they developed a mutual animosity. Strickland had previously mocked Chimaev for allegedly scamming his fans with cryptocurrency.

Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev
Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev (via X/Imago)

After Strickland got his title rematch with Dricus Du Plessis, Chimaev has been constantly making fun of the former champion. The American recently took to X in order to respond to this trolling with a stern message. In the most Strickland fashion, it was as brutal as it gets. 

I love how cumshot will try to talk shit to me..Bro youre not a man, character level fucking dog shit.. Crypto scams, whored yourself out to kadyrov for cars, fled to the middle east when the pimp hand got to strong. Stay in your lane Swedish man.

Sean Strickland via X 

The fight between Strickland and DDP is scheduled to take place at UFC 312, and after that, Du Plessis wants to fight Chimaev. However, given the last fight, Strickland does have a great chance to dethrone the champ. It would be interesting to see who Chimaev fights for the middleweight title next year.