Potential confrontations are anticipated throughout this week's UFC 328 promotional activities, extending beyond the main Strickland vs. Chimaev matchup. Josh Hoquit, who previously called out Alex Pereira, may attempt to provoke him when they cross paths at the press conference. A meeting between Topuria and Tsarukyan is also likely, as the White House event press conference is scheduled immediately before the UFC 328 face-offs, and Arman will be present with Khamzat. Security is expected to be on high alert given these potential interactions.
UFC 328 fight week is shaping up to be eventful well before anyone steps inside the octagon, with multiple potential confrontations anticipated across this week's promotional schedule as the card prepares to culminate on May 9.
The headlining tension centers on middleweight champion Sean Strickland and top contender Khamzat Chimaev, whose rivalry needs little added fuel. Strickland, 35, carries a 31-7-0 record and holds the middleweight title representing the United States out of Xtreme Couture. The six-foot-one, 193 cm orthodox striker averages an aggressive 6.04 significant strikes per minute. Chimaev, ranked first in the division and tenth pound-for-pound, enters at 15-1-0. The six-foot-two Emirati fighter is one of the most complete wrestlers in the sport, averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes with a striking accuracy of 60 percent.
Beyond that matchup, Josh Hoquit — who has previously called out light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira — is expected to seek out a confrontation with Pereira during the press conference. Additionally, a face-off between lightweight contender Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan appears likely. The White House event press conference is scheduled immediately before the UFC 328 face-offs, with Tsarukyan set to attend alongside Chimaev. Topuria, the pound-for-pound number one fighter in the world, holds a 17-1-0 record and fights out of Spain. The 29-year-old is a well-rounded threat, averaging 4.81 significant strikes per minute with a 48 percent accuracy rate and 1.96 takedowns per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Strickland vs. Chimaev already carries enormous divisional stakes, and any heated exchanges this week will intensify an already high-profile main event
- A Topuria-Tsarukyan altercation could signal where the lightweight title picture is heading after UFC 328
- Security is reported to be on high alert throughout all promotional events given the volume of potential flash points
Saturday, May 9, 2026
