NEWARK, N.J. — Khamzat Chimaev’s first defense of the UFC middleweight title is set for May 9 at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, and former champion Sean Strickland presents a unique challenge to the dominant Swede. While Chimaev remains undefeated, questions are emerging about whether Strickland’s durability and tactical approach could test Chimaev’s stamina and grappling-heavy game plan.
The matchup, announced earlier this month by UFC CEO Dana White, pits the undefeated Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) against Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC), who is coming off a February TKO victory over Anthony Hernandez. The fight has drawn attention from within the sport, with veteran fighter Jorge Masvidal offering his analysis, suggesting Strickland possesses the tools to push Chimaev to his limits.
Masvidal believes Strickland’s defensive capabilities, particularly against grappling, could neutralize a key component of Chimaev’s success. “Strickland is a tough guy, he’s got a excellent chin, and he defends the takedowns well,” Masvidal reportedly stated. “If he can keep this fight standing, he can make Chimaev work and potentially wear him down.”
Chimaev’s rise through the middleweight division has been nothing short of spectacular. He claimed the title last August with a unanimous decision victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319, a performance that solidified his status as one of the sport’s most formidable fighters. Prior to that, he secured impressive wins over former champions Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker, showcasing his well-rounded skillset. However, Chimaev hasn’t fought since the Du Plessis bout, raising some questions about ring rust and potential adjustments needed after a period of inactivity.
Strickland, meanwhile, is looking to reclaim the title he lost to Du Plessis earlier in his career. His recent win over Hernandez demonstrated his resilience and ability to adapt, and he’s clearly eager to prove he remains a top contender in the division. Strickland’s two losses to Du Plessis highlight a potential vulnerability to powerful wrestling and grappling, but his overall striking defense and ability to absorb punishment are highly regarded.
The key to Strickland’s potential success lies in his ability to avoid being taken down and controlled by Chimaev. If Strickland can maintain the fight in the striking realm, he has the technical skills and experience to pose a serious threat. However, Chimaev’s relentless pressure and powerful takedowns will undoubtedly test Strickland’s defensive wrestling.
The stamina factor Masvidal highlighted is crucial. Chimaev typically overwhelms opponents with a relentless pace, attempting to finish fights quickly. If Strickland can weather the early storm and force Chimaev to expend energy without securing a takedown, the fight could shift in Strickland’s favor as the rounds progress. A prolonged striking battle could expose Chimaev’s conditioning, particularly if he’s unable to implement his grappling game.
UFC 328 is shaping up to be a compelling event, with several other intriguing matchups on the card. Alexander Volkov will face Waldo Cortes-Acosta in a heavyweight bout, while Sean Brady is set to clash with Joaquin Buckley in a welterweight contest. A rematch between Jan Błachowicz and Bogdan Guskov is also scheduled, following their majority draw at UFC 323. Lightweight veterans King Green and Jeremy Stephens will also compete, adding further depth to the event.
The main event, however, remains the focal point. Chimaev’s undefeated record and dominant performances have generated significant hype, but Strickland represents a legitimate threat to his reign. The fight promises to be a clash of styles – Chimaev’s relentless grappling versus Strickland’s striking prowess – and the outcome could have significant implications for the future of the middleweight division.
The event will be held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on May 9, with the main card scheduled to start at 9:00 PM EDT. Fans can watch the action on Paramount+. The build-up to UFC 328 will undoubtedly intensify in the coming weeks, as both fighters prepare to deliver a memorable performance in front of a global audience.
Following UFC 328, Chimaev’s next steps will depend on the outcome of his fight with Strickland. A victory would further cement his status as a dominant champion, potentially leading to a unification bout with other top contenders. A loss, however, would open up a new chapter in the middleweight division, with Strickland poised to reclaim his position at the top.
