Nassourdine Imavov, after defeating Israel Adesanya and extending his winning streak, is serving as the backup fighter for the UFC 319 main event where Dricus du Plessis faces Khamzat Chimaev, positioning him closer to title contention.
Nassourdine Imavov is making waves in the UFC. After a jaw-dropping victory over former champ Israel Adesanya in February, he’s inching closer to a title shot. He’ll be the backup fighter for the main event at UFC 319, where middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis takes on Khamzat Chimaev.
Sources confirmed to MMA Fighting that Imavov is staying sharp for the Aug. 16 event at the United Center in Chicago. RMC Sport was the first to break this news. It’s a common practice for the UFC to have backup fighters ready, especially since the COVID pandemic highlighted the need for contingency plans.
Imavov is on fire, riding a four-fight win streak. His victories include knockouts over Brendan Allen, Jared Cannonier, and Roman Dolidze. These wins have catapulted him to the top of the middleweight rankings.
With a record of 16-4 and one no contest, Imavov is a force to be reckoned with. In the UFC, he’s 8-2, plus that no contest. Despite his success, he knows Chimaev was already tapped as the next contender after defeating Robert Whittaker.
Still, being the backup keeps Imavov in the mix for a title shot. The 30-year-old Russian is on the brink of UFC gold. UFC 319 is set for Saturday night, Aug. 16, with the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET on pay-per-view. Exciting times ahead!