Chimaev defends middleweight title vs Strickland at UFC 328

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev will make his first title defense against former champion Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9, 2026, in Newark, New Jersey. This matchup represents a significant test for Chimaev as he faces a former titleholder in Strickland, who previously held the middleweight crown. The fight will be broadcast on Paramount+. This title defense marks an important moment in the middleweight division, as Strickland seeks to reclaim championship gold while Chimaev aims to establish himself as a dominant champion. The bout is expected to draw considerable attention given both fighters' prominence in the division.