Chimaev spars with Allen ahead of UFC 328 bout versus Strickland

Video footage captured Khamzat Chimaev sparring with fellow middleweight Brendan Allen as the number-one contender continues his preparations for a middleweight title fight against Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9. The session was filmed by Bear Degidio and circulated on social media, offering a glimpse inside Chimaev's training camp ahead of the high-stakes bout.

Chimaev, 32, represents the UAE and trains out of Allstars Training Center. He carries a 15-1 record and sits at number one in the middleweight rankings and tenth on the pound-for-pound list. His game is built on relentless wrestling — he averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes — while his 60 percent striking accuracy makes him dangerous on the feet as well.

Allen, ranked fifth at middleweight, made the trip to camp to serve as a training partner. The 30-year-old American holds a 26-7 record and brings a well-rounded skill set, averaging 1.56 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes alongside a 53 percent striking accuracy. His physical profile closely mirrors Chimaev's — both stand six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach — making him a logical sparring choice.

Strickland, the reigning middleweight champion, enters the fight at 31-7 with a reputation built on relentless forward pressure and volume striking. The 35-year-old from Xtreme Couture lands 6.04 significant strikes per minute, operates out of an orthodox stance, and owns a 76-inch reach advantage over both Chimaev and Allen.

Why it matters

• Chimaev is the division's top-ranked contender challenging a reigning champion, giving the fight clear title implications
• Allen's style — active on the ground, accurate on the feet — provides Chimaev with a credible simulation of a well-rounded opponent
• A Chimaev victory would make him middleweight champion, completing one of the sport's most anticipated title runs