Hamzat Chimaev was filmed sparring with middleweight contender Brendan Allen during a training camp session. The footage was captured by Bear Degidio and shows Chimaev preparing for his upcoming fight against Sean Strickland at UFC 328. Allen, who is ranked in the UFC middleweight division, joined Chimaev's camp as a training partner. The sparring session demonstrates Chimaev's preparation for the high-profile middleweight clash. The post includes video evidence of the training exchange between the two fighters.
Hamzat Chimaev has been filmed sparring with ranked middleweight contender Brendan Allen as preparation ramps up for his highly anticipated clash with Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9. Footage captured by Bear Degidio shows the two men exchanging in a training session, offering a glimpse into Chimaev's camp ahead of one of the division's most compelling matchups this year.
Chimaev is set to face reigning middleweight champion Sean Strickland, who carries a 31-7-0 record and defends his title from Xtreme Couture. The 35-year-old American is one of the sport's most active strikers, landing 6.04 significant strikes per minute while maintaining a 76-inch reach that he uses to control distance throughout his fights.
Allen, who enters Chimaev's camp ranked fifth in the UFC middleweight division, brings a notably sharp skill set to the training room. The 30-year-old Kill Cliff FC product holds a 26-7-0 record and posts a striking accuracy of 53 percent — one of the higher marks in the division. His grappling credentials are equally notable, with 1.56 takedowns per 15 minutes and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes, making him a well-rounded and credible sparring option for anyone preparing for a complex opponent.
Why it matters
- Strickland's championship status makes this one of the division's biggest bouts, and camp preparation carries added weight.
- Allen's combination of sharp striking and active grappling makes him a useful simulation partner for the multidimensional challenge Chimaev will face.
- The footage adds transparency to Chimaev's preparation and signals he is approaching the fight with high-level middleweight talent in the room.
- UFC 328 is scheduled for May 9, leaving limited time for both camps to finalize their game plans.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
