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 in the main event of UFC 328 on May 9 in Newark, New Jersey. This blockbuster matchup headlines the updated 2026 event schedule, which also lists several Fight Nights including Gilbert Burns vs. Mike Malott on April 18 in Winnipeg. The fight pits the undefeated Chimaev against Strickland's elite wrestling and striking in a pivotal middleweight clash. It matters as Chimaev's first defense could solidify his reign or open the division to contenders like Dricus du Plessis. Expect intense buildup with trash talk from Strickland.