PARIS, Sept 6 — Nassourdine Imavov put himself in the middleweight title conversation on Saturday night, outpointing Caio Borralho across five rounds in the main event at Accor Arena before challenging champion Khamzat Chimaev.
The French contender, 29, dictated the pace throughout the contest, landing cleaner strikes and managing distance effectively. Judges rewarded him with tallies of 50–45, 49–46 and 49–46, extending his run of four wins in his last five appearances.
In his post-fight remarks, delivered via translator, Imavov declared his readiness for the belt. “I am next,” he told the crowd, which erupted in support of their hometown fighter.
The title picture remains unsettled. Chimaev has not been assigned his first defence, while an upcoming October clash between Reinier de Ridder and Anthony Hernandez could also shape the next challenger. Analysts note that although Imavov’s victory in Paris strengthens his case, the final decision rests with the promotion.
Chimaev, who captured the vacant championship earlier this year, responded online with a brief nod to Imavov’s display but stopped short of confirming any matchup.
No date or venue has yet been set for Chimaev’s next appearance.
