1. Dricus du Plessis
A matchup with Dricus du Plessis could be an exciting prospect. Du Plessis is the current UFC Middleweight Champion and recently defended his title against Israel Adesanya. Given his ranking and championship status, a fight with Imavov could serve as a title eliminator, setting the stage for a future championship opportunity for Imavov. With both fighters having striking prowess and grappling skills, this bout could be highly competitive.
Dricus du Plessis’ Last 5 Fights
- Win vs. Israel Adesanya (Submission, UFC 305, August 18, 2024)
- Win vs. Sean Strickland (Decision, UFC 297, January 20, 2024)
- Win vs. Robert Whittaker (TKO, UFC 290, July 8, 2023)
- Win vs. Derek Brunson (TKO, UFC 285, March 4, 2023)
- Win vs. Darren Till (Submission, UFC 282, December 10, 2022)
2. Sean Strickland Rematch
Another intriguing option would be a rematch with Sean Strickland. Although Imavov lost to Strickland previously, a second encounter would allow him to showcase his growth and improvements since that fight. Strickland remains a top contender in the middleweight division, and a rematch could draw significant attention, especially if Imavov can mount a compelling case for a title shot.
Sean Strickland’s Last 5 Fights
- Win vs. Paulo Costa (Decision, UFC 302, June 1, 2024)
- Loss vs. Dricus du Plessis (Decision, UFC 297, January 20, 2024)
- Win vs. Israel Adesanya (Decision, UFC 293, September 10, 2023)
- Win vs. Abusupiyan Magomedov (TKO, UFC on ESPN, July 1, 2023)
- Win vs. Nassourdine Imavov (Decision, UFC Fight Night, January 14, 2023)
3. Caio Borralho
Fighting Caio Borralho would also be a viable option. Borralho is currently ranked #5 in the middleweight division and is coming off a notable victory against Jared Cannonier. A clash between Imavov and Borralho could be pivotal in determining the next title challenger. Given both fighters' styles and skills, this matchup promises to be an exciting contest with high stakes.
Caio Borralho’s Last 5 Fights
- Win vs. Jared Cannonier (Decision, UFC on ESPN, March 9, 2024)
- Win vs. Makhmud Muradov (Decision, UFC Fight Night, December 18, 2023)
- Win vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (Submission, UFC 290, July 8, 2023)
- Win vs. Eryk Anders (Decision, UFC Fight Night, September 2, 2023)
- Win vs. Timo Feucht (Submission, Contender Series Brazil 3, November 23, 2022)