Of course, if Chimaev decides to make a quick turnaround and fight in October when the UFC heads back to Abu Dhabi, Borralho or Imavov could get the call. But considering ‘Borz’ barely averages one fight per year these days, we wouldn’t bet money on that happening.

Caio Borralho is coming off a victory over Jared Cannonier in August 2024. | Getty/UFC Caio Borralho was not surprised by the result of the UFC 319 headliner. With the experience of having trained with Khamzat Chimaev in Sweden for one month,

Following his impressive second-round knockout of ‘The Last Stylebender’ in February, Imavov was eager to get back to work. Speaking with MMA Junkie, the Dagestani revealed what inspired him to ask for a fight against Borralho in ‘The City of Light.’

Nassourdine Imavov confirms he declined the UFC 319 title fight backup slot, but says it was for quality reasons. With his UFC Fight Night 258 main event on the horizon, Imavov (16-4 MMA, 8-2 UFC) doesn't see much reward in traveling across the world, battling jet lag and cutting weight, only to likely not even fight in the end.

This is going to be FUN 👀 Reinier de Ridder vs Anthony Hernandez is the #UFCVancouver main event! Tickets on sale Friday | Learn more: https://t.co/Sy7avEfmJe pic.twitter.com/Uoi2AStUWT