Imavov Secures Fifth Win, Claims UFC Middleweight Title Shot

Nassourdine Imavov has solidified his position as the leading contender for the UFC middleweight title following a dominant unanimous decision victory over Caio Borralho at UFC Paris, extending his winning streak to five. Despite a painful foot injury that limited his mobility, Imavov controlled the fight with superior striking and takedown defense, notably snapping Borralho's decade-long unbeaten streak and outlanding him throughout the bout. Imavov confidently called for the next title shot against reigning champion Khamzat Chimaev, who recently claimed the belt with a commanding win over Dricus du Plessis. While UFC CEO Dana White indicated that the winner of the upcoming bout between Reinier de Ridder and Anthony Hernandez could also earn a title shot, Imavov's recent performances, including wins over Israel Adesanya and others, have earned him recognition from peers and analysts as a top challenger. Imavov embraces the underdog role against Chimaev and has expressed readiness to deliver his best performance in a potential title fight. Chimaev has acknowledged Imavov’s recent victory as a "good fight" on social media, but the division’s next steps remain contingent on other contenders’ outcomes.