UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev is scheduled to 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 numbered event next month, pitting the undefeated Chimaev against the striking specialist Strickland in a pivotal middleweight clash. The fight anchors a busy 2026 schedule that includes Aljamain Sterling vs. Youssef Zalal on April 25 in Las Vegas. It matters for the division as it tests Chimaev's dominance early in his reign while giving Strickland a path back to gold. Expect intense grappling vs. boxing exchanges, with potential implications for future contenders like Jack Della Maddalena.
UFC 328
Saturday, May 9, 2026
