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Strickland Defeats Chimaev, Retains Title Amid Weight-Class Talk

5/12/2026

Summary

Strickland Defeats Chimaev

Sean Strickland won a split-decision over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328, reclaiming the middleweight title.
Both fighters had 24-hour security yet appeared together at the press conference and weigh-in.
Khamzat Chimaev told UFC CEO Dana White he wants to move to light-heavyweight.
Sean Strickland said his next defense may be against Nassourdine Imavov, a plan Dana White doubts.
Sean Brady called the post-fight camaraderie crossing a line.

Summary

Strickland Triumphs Injured

Strickland fought with a separated shoulder and a busted nose and still won.
The Newark crowd repeatedly chanted “U-S-A!” after Strickland’s victory.
In a Paramount+ interview, Strickland said he will take time off to heal.
Strickland warned that UFC rankings matter and criticized fighters who try to “jump” the line.
Du Plessis, a former champion who watched the bout, celebrated the win and predicted the outcome.

Summary

ESPN Grades

ESPN gave UFC 328 a B grade, calling it average despite a few standout fights.
The flyweight bout between Joshua Van and Tatsuro Taira earned an A grade for skill and competitiveness.
UFC posted the full fifth round of the Strickland-Chimaev main event on YouTube so fans could review the decision.
The event took place at Newark’s Prudential Center on May 9, 2026, streamed on Paramount+ and featuring seven stoppages shaping reviews.

Summary

Chimaev Demands Rematch

After his fight, Khamzat Chimaev posted on X tagging Sean Strickland and demanding a rematch despite earlier saying he would move to light heavyweight.
Dana White said Chimaev told him he was ready to jump to 205 pounds, but the fighter later seemed to reconsider.
Analysts pointed out the UFC rarely grants immediate title-defense rematches, citing Aljamain Sterling’s loss, and said a Strickland-Chimaev bout would be judged on its revenue potential.

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Strickland Defeats Chimaev

Sean Strickland won a split-decision over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328, reclaiming the middleweight title.
Both fighters had 24-hour security yet appeared together at the press conference and weigh-in.
Khamzat Chimaev told UFC CEO Dana White he wants to move to light-heavyweight.
Sean Strickland said his next defense may be against Nassourdine Imavov, a plan Dana White doubts.
Sean Brady called the post-fight camaraderie crossing a line.

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