UFC cancels faceoff, increases security for Chimaev vs Strickland presser

The UFC has scrapped the traditional faceoff between middleweight champion Sean Strickland and top contender Khamzat Chimaev at their pre-fight press conference, with the promotion also ramping up security amid concerns over potential unrest between the two fighters.

Strickland, 35, brings a record of 31 wins and 7 losses into the contest as the reigning middleweight champion. The American fighter out of Xtreme Couture stands six-foot-one with a 76-inch reach and has built a reputation as one of the division's most active strikers, landing 6.04 significant strikes per minute at 42 percent accuracy. The orthodox southpaw also mixes in takedown attempts at a modest rate of 0.71 per 15 minutes.

Chimaev, the number-one ranked middleweight and number-10 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC, enters with a near-flawless 15-1 record. The 32-year-old, representing the United Arab Emirates and training out of Allstars Training Center, stands six-foot-two and carries a remarkable 60 percent striking accuracy alongside a dominant grappling game. He averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes and 1.8 submission attempts per 15 minutes, making him one of the most complete threats in the division.

The UFC's decision to eliminate the faceoff altogether signals genuine concern about the two men sharing the same stage without incident. Rather than risk a physical altercation derailing the promotional buildup, the organization has opted for tighter control over press conference proceedings.

Why it matters

• Strickland's title is on the line against the division's most dangerous ranked contender
• The scrapped faceoff is an unusual departure from standard UFC press conference protocol
• Chimaev's grappling-heavy style presents a stark contrast to Strickland's high-volume striking approach
• Heightened security reflects the volatile personal dynamic between the two fighters heading into fight week