Sean Strickland names Yaroslav Amosov the tougher test than Khamzat Chimaev

Sean Strickland has placed Yaroslav Amosov ahead of Khamzat Chimaev in his personal rankings of welterweight contenders.

What did Strickland say?

Strickland told reporters this week that he views Yaroslav Amosov as the more dangerous challenge than Khamzat Chimaev. The American middleweight made the comments during a media session ahead of his next scheduled bout. He did not specify a timeline for when the rankings were finalized or updated.

Strickland’s remarks come as both Amosov and Chimaev remain active in the welterweight division. Amosov holds a 17-0 record with 11 finishes, while Chimaev is 17-2 with 12 finishes. Neither has fought Strickland inside the cage.

Why the comparison matters

The comments add another layer to the ongoing debate over who stands as the division’s next elite threat. Strickland, 34, has repeatedly called out top welterweights after his UFC middleweight title loss to Israel Adesanya in September 2023. His latest remarks suggest he sees Amosov as a more pressing obstacle than Chimaev, who has been linked to a potential move up to middleweight.

Strickland’s stance also reflects his preference for stylistic contrasts. Amosov’s wrestling-heavy approach contrasts sharply with Chimaev’s explosive striking and grappling mix. Strickland has built his reputation on strong wrestling and cage control, making either matchup a compelling chess piece.

Where the rankings stand now

Strickland’s personal list is not an official UFC ranking, but it signals his view of the division’s hierarchy. The UFC welterweight rankings currently place Leon Edwards at No. 1, followed by Chimaev at No. 2 and Belal Muhammad at No. 3. Amosov sits at No. 7 after his latest win over Carlston Harris in April 2024.

Strickland’s next fight is scheduled for August 10, 2024, at UFC 305 in Sydney, Australia. He faces a top-15 welterweight in the co-main event, though the opponent’s name has not been officially confirmed.

What’s next for Strickland

Strickland’s camp is finalizing details for his August return. The Sydney fight marks his first appearance outside North America since 2022. A win could push him back into title contention, especially if Chimaev or Edwards falter in their upcoming bouts.

Strickland has not fought since his split decision loss to Dricus Du Plessis in December 2023. That fight ended his five-bout winning streak and dropped him from the middleweight title picture. His next result will weigh heavily on his path forward.

And if Amosov continues his rise, Strickland may get the matchup he now publicly favors.