Khamzat Chimaev is conducting sparring sessions with middleweight Brendan Allen as part of his training camp for UFC 328. Chimaev is scheduled to face Sean Strickland at the upcoming event. The sparring footage was captured and shared by Bear Degidio. Allen, a top-ranked middleweight, provides high-level preparation for Chimaev's important matchup against the former champion.
Khamzat Chimaev has been spotted sparring with middleweight contender Brendan Allen as he prepares for his UFC 328 showdown with Sean Strickland, scheduled for May 9. Footage of the sessions was captured and shared by Bear Degidio.
Chimaev, known as "Borz," enters the camp as the number-one ranked middleweight and sits at number ten in the pound-for-pound standings. The 32-year-old representing the United Arab Emirates carries a 15-1 record and trains out of Allstars Training Center. His grappling presents a constant threat, averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes, and he connects on a striking accuracy of 60 percent, among the highest in the division.
Allen, ranked fifth at middleweight, brings genuine championship-level resistance to the camp. The 30-year-old American, who competes for Kill Cliff FC, holds a 26-7 record and is a well-rounded threat himself. He averages 1.56 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes, making him an excellent simulation partner for the wrestling-heavy style Chimaev is likely to face from Strickland.
Strickland, the reigning middleweight champion, is 31-7 and fighting out of Xtreme Couture. The 35-year-old from the United States is an aggressive pressure striker, landing 6.04 significant strikes per minute with a reach of 76 inches. His output and forward movement define his style and represent a stiff test for any opponent.
Why it matters
- Chimaev faces the division's reigning champion, making this among the highest-stakes bouts of his career to date.
- Allen's combination of grappling and striking at number five in the rankings provides credible, high-level preparation.
- A Chimaev victory would consolidate his position as the middleweight division's dominant force heading into the second half of 2026.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
