Sean Strickland claims Yaroslav Amosov outgrapples Khamzat Chimaev after Chimaev loss

Sean Strickland has weighed in on the grappling debate, naming Yaroslav Amosov as the better ground fighter than Khamzat Chimaev.

Strickland made the call after training with Amosov at American Top Team in Florida. The UFC middleweight champion had just outpointed Chimaev at UFC 328 on 18 May 2025, handing the Chechen star his first loss inside the Octagon.

What did Strickland say?

Strickland, who improved to 32-7 with the decision win over Chimaev, made his remarks while helping Johnny Eblen prepare for his own fight. “He has better grappling than Chimaev,” Strickland told reporters after rolling with Amosov.

Amosov, 30-1, chimed in on his YouTube channel, calling Strickland a “hard partner, hard champion, but crazy, funny crazy.”

How did Chimaev lose to Strickland?

Chimaev started as a massive betting favorite but faded fast. He gassed in the second round and abandoned his wrestling-heavy style. Strickland then outstruck “Borz” on the feet for five rounds to earn the unanimous decision.

The fight took place at UFC 328 on 18 May 2025 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Where does Amosov fit in?

Amosov left Bellator after his lone career loss to Jason Jackson in 2023. He joined the UFC on a regional-circuit hot streak and has submitted both opponents so far. His latest finish came on the Chimaev vs. Strickland undercard, when he choked out Joel Alvarez in the second round.

Strickland trains at American Top Team alongside Eblen, while Amosov remains at Tristar Gym in Montreal.

What’s next for Chimaev?

Chimaev’s camp has yet to announce his next opponent. The loss snapped a four-fight UFC win streak and left his welterweight title hopes in limbo. Fans now wait for word on a potential trilogy with Strickland or a move back to 185 pounds.