Sean Strickland Wanted $1 Million to Fight Imavov

Sean Strickland vs. Nassourdine Imavov appeared headed for a December showdown in Las Vegas—until a different main event was announced and the rumored middleweight fight disappeared. Now reports suggest money may have gotten in the way, including a claim that Strickland wanted $1 million for the fight. Imavov responded publicly with an offer of his own: he can't give Strickland that money just to show up, but he'll put up $500,000 if Strickland can beat him. Chael Sonnen explains why he doesn't believe the simple solution is moving the same matchup to January. More importantly, what happens to Imavov? He's healthy, willing to compete and sitting in the prime of his career, yet could potentially spend an entire year on the sidelines. Chael breaks down the Strickland situation, Imavov's uncertain position, where Khamzat Chimaev fits into the middleweight picture, and why keeping Imavov inactive could ultimately hurt one of the division's top contenders.