Nassourdine Imavov earned a clear win at UFC Paris on September 6, 2025, defeating Caio Borralho by unanimous decision in the main event at Accor Arena. Imavov, ranked number two in the middleweight division, used precise striking and solid takedown defense to outscore Borralho, with judges giving him 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46. During his post-fight interview, Imavov screamed, “I am next!” aiming for a shot at Khamzat Chimaev’s middleweight title.
“I AM NEXT!” ️@Imavov1 calls his shot at the middleweight title after his win at #UFCParis! pic.twitter.com/jQAXec0mhz
— UFC (@ufc) September 6, 2025
Chimaev, the undefeated champion, wrote on X,
“Good fight! Assalamu Alaykum,” praising Imavov’s effort.
Good fight!
Assalamu Alaykum— Khamzat Chimaev (@KChimaev) September 6, 2025
The message, sent after Imavov’s fifth consecutive victory, stirred talk of a potential title fight. The packed Paris crowd cheered Imavov’s bold callout, boosting excitement for a possible Chimaev clash.
Imavov, 30, from Dagestan, Russia, now based in Paris, France, stands 6’3” with a 75-inch reach and holds a 17-4 MMA record with 6 knockouts. He joined the UFC in 2020, winning his debut against Jordan Williams by decision. His notable wins include Joaquin Buckley in 2022, Roman Dolidze in February 2024, and a knockout of Israel Adesanya earlier in 2025. His only UFC loss was to Sean Strickland in January 2023 by unanimous decision.
Chimaev, 31, stands 6’2” with a 75-inch reach and remains unbeaten at 14-0 with 6 knockouts. He captured the middleweight title at UFC 319 on August 16, 2025, controlling Dricus Du Plessis with 12 takedowns for a unanimous decision. His 2020 UFC debut saw two wins in 10 days, setting a record for the fastest turnaround.
