Despite Sean Strickland defying the odds to defeat the heavily favored Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC 328 last Saturday, bookmakers remain skeptical about his chances in a potential rematch. The American, who entered the first fight as a massive underdog, was once again listed as the betting underdog when odds opened for a possible second clash with the Chechen-born fighter.
According to the betting site BetOnline, Strickland is again the underdog against Chimaev, though the gap has narrowed significantly compared to their first bout. The initial odds sit at +160 for Strickland, meaning a $100 bet on the American would yield $160 in profit if he wins. Meanwhile, Chimaev opens as the favorite at -185, requiring a $185 wager to profit $100 if the Russian secures victory.
The odds reflect the market’s lingering belief in Chimaev’s talent, but Strickland’s upset win—where he outclassed the previously unbeaten contender—has clearly shifted perceptions. The first fight was a stunning upset, with Strickland controlling the pace and earning a unanimous decision victory to capture the UFC middleweight title.
In another potential matchup, Strickland vs. Nassourdine Imavov has already seen odds released. Imavov, ranked second in the division, is a frontrunner for the next title shot if Chimaev moves up in weight, as expected. Interestingly, the champion and the potential challenger open with identical odds at -110, implying a virtual toss-up. A $110 bet on either would net $100 if they win. This bout would also be a rematch, as the two previously fought in January 2023, with Strickland winning via unanimous decision.
The betting lines underscore the uncertainty in the middleweight division after Strickland’s shock victory. While Chimaev remains the betting favorite for a rematch, the narrowed odds suggest bettors are taking Strickland’s championship credentials more seriously. Meanwhile, a potential fight with Imavov appears evenly matched on paper, setting the stage for another intriguing chapter in the 185-pound weight class.
