Khamzat Chimaev was filmed sparring with Brendan Allen as part of his training camp for UFC 328. The session was documented by photographer Bear Degidio and shows Chimaev preparing for his upcoming bout against Sean Strickland. Training footage featuring high-level sparring partners often generates interest among fans seeking insights into a fighter's preparation. Allen, a skilled middleweight contender, provides quality opposition for Chimaev's camp. The sparring session indicates Chimaev is actively engaged in his fight preparation for the high-profile matchup.
Khamzat Chimaev was caught on camera sparring with middleweight contender Brendan Allen as part of his preparation for UFC 328, where he is scheduled to face middleweight champion Sean Strickland on May 9. The session was documented by photographer Bear Degidio and offers a glimpse into Chimaev's training camp ahead of one of the most anticipated matchups in the division.
Chimaev, 32, represents the UAE and trains out of Allstars Training Center. Ranked first in the middleweight division and tenth pound-for-pound, he carries a 15-1 record and brings elite wrestling to every fight, averaging an extraordinary 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes. He also strikes at a 60 percent accuracy rate, the highest among the three fighters involved in this camp setup.
Allen, nicknamed "All In," is a natural fit as a sparring partner for this camp. The 30-year-old American holds a 26-7 record and sits fifth in the middleweight rankings with Kill Cliff FC. He averages 1.56 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes, giving Chimaev credible grappling resistance in the gym.
Strickland, the reigning middleweight champion, is an orthodox striker standing six-foot-one with a 76-inch reach. The 35-year-old trains out of Xtreme Couture and carries a 31-7 record. He lands 6.04 significant strikes per minute, making him one of the busiest volume strikers in the division, though his accuracy sits at 42 percent.
Why it matters
- Chimaev versus Strickland is a number-one contender versus champion matchup with the middleweight title on the line at UFC 328
- Allen's well-rounded skill set at number five in the division makes him a high-quality sparring choice for simulating championship-level opposition
- Chimaev's documented camp activity signals active and focused preparation ahead of the May 9 event
Saturday, May 9, 2026
