Chimaev Rules Out Borralho And Du Plessis For Next UFC Fight

Khamzat Chimaev has narrowed his list of potential opponents after the UFC informed him that two middleweight contenders are sidelined with injuries.

The former champion told Red Corner MMA that the promotion recently notified him Caio Borralho and Dricus Du Plessis are unavailable due to undisclosed injuries. Borralho had previously accepted a callout from Chimaev on social media, proposing a November date at Madison Square Garden.

With Nassourdine Imavov expected to challenge Sean Strickland for the middleweight title next, Chimaev said he would be prepared to step in if that bout fails to materialize. "I call out everyone," Chimaev said, per Red Corner MMA. "I want to come back as soon as possible. Earlier, I said that I want to return in October, and I called Hunter. They told me that Caio and du Plessis are injured. We'll see what happens; I don't know exactly. Maybe Imavov and Strickland won't fight and I will be ready."

Chimaev won the middleweight strap with a decision over Du Plessis last year but dropped the belt to Strickland in May in a major upset. The Chechen fighter has repeatedly stated his intention to remain at 185 pounds despite UFC CEO Dana White suggesting he might move up a weight class.

Chimaev most recently competed at a regional event in Moscow, where he spoke about his timeline for returning to the Octagon. No official booking has been announced.