Nassourdine Imavov is willing to put $500,000 of his own money on the line to get his long-awaited UFC title fight against Sean Strickland across the finish line.
The No. 3-ranked middleweight contender took aim at the reigning champion after reports emerged that Strickland’s return is being held up by a pay dispute. Imavov is now offering to make the financial situation even more interesting, challenging Strickland to take the fight in January and put the money on the line himself.
Nassourdine Imavov Makes Stunning $500,000 Offer To Sean Strickland
Imavov made the offer on X, directly addressing Strickland and questioning whether money is really the reason the champion has yet to accept the matchup.
“If it’s really about money, I’ll put $500K of my own money on the line if you beat me in January. Sean Strickland, putting this on record, if you still don’t take it, then you’re just scared,” Imavov wrote. “I’ll handle you outside. UFC, THIS is your champ? Come on STRIP HIM.”
The French contender then doubled down, saying he was putting the offer on record and accusing Strickland of being scared if he still refused to take the fight. Imavov also called on the UFC to strip Strickland of the title.
The unusual challenge comes after Strickland confirmed that money was the sticking point in negotiations for his next fight. The champion had been linked to a December 12 title defense against Imavov at UFC 335, but the matchup was not finalized and the card will instead be headlined by Charles Oliveira vs. Diego Lopes.
“The Sniper” has been waiting for his title opportunity since defeating Caio Borralho by unanimous decision at UFC Paris in September 2025. That victory extended his winning streak and strengthened his case for a shot at the middleweight championship.
The 30-year-old has now won five straight fights, including stoppage victories over Jared Cannonier and Israel Adesanya, and is seeking to finally settle unfinished business with Strickland.
The two previously shared the Octagon at UFC Vegas 67 in January 2023, with Strickland winning a unanimous decision.
