Chimaev defends middleweight title vs Strickland May 9

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev will make his first title defense against former champion Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9 in Newark, New Jersey. This blockbuster matchup headlines the pay-per-view event, pitting the undefeated Chimaev against Strickland's striking prowess and wrestling defense. The fight is a critical test for Chimaev's dominance in the middleweight division, potentially solidifying his reign or opening the title picture. Expect intense trash talk leading up to the event as both fighters vie for supremacy. This announcement updates the 2026 schedule amid a packed calendar of Fight Nights.