KHAMZAT CHIMAEV made a major career decision just moments after his defeat to Sean Strickland.
The Russian wrecking machine’s reign as middleweight champion came to a stunning end early this morning in the main event of UFC 328 in New Jersey.
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Khamzat Chimaev went to war with Sean Strickland at UFC 328 Credit: REUTERS
The Russian suffered a shock split decision defeat to his former training partner Credit: GETTY
Chimaev, 32, suffered a bloody split decision loss to his former training partner in an epic five-rounder at the Prudential Center.
The Chechen cut a dejected figure as the result was read out, although he showed his class by wrapping the belt around his rival’s waist.
He quickly stormed out of the cage without the customary post-fight interview for defeated champions.
And as he walked past UFC supremo Dana White he revealed that he wants to MOVE UP to light-heavyweight.
UFC 328
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Khamzat Chimaev walked out of the cage without having a post-fight interview Credit: TNT SPORTS
Chimaev has revealed he plans to MOVE UP to light-heavyweight after crushing loss Credit: GETTY
During the post-fight press conference, he said of a potential rematch: “He literally walked up to me and said, ‘I wanna move up.
“‘I don’t wanna fight in this weight class.’ Him moving up is exciting.”
Strickland’s stunning upset victory saw him become a two-time middleweight champion.
And after having his hand raised, he issued an apology for his controversial pre-fight comments.
He told Joe Rogan: “I just want to apologise to my American fans, to my Muslim fans and Christian fans.
“I went too f***ing hard, I admit it. I respect all, you guys.”
He later added: “He may have broke my nose. I want to tell you guys, my fans, I f***ing love you guys.
“I would not be where I am today without you guys.
” My Christian fans, Muslim fans, white fans, Black fans, brown fans. I f***ing love you.”
