Chimaev and Strickland complete photo session ahead of UFC 328 title fight

Sean Strickland and Hamzat Chimaev came face-to-face for the cameras earlier this week as the UFC released official promotional photos ahead of their middleweight title clash at UFC 328, scheduled for May 9, 2026.

Strickland enters the bout as the reigning middleweight champion, bringing a record of 31 wins and 7 losses into what will be his fourth UFC title fight. The 35-year-old American, who trains out of Xtreme Couture, stands six-foot-one with a 76-inch reach and fights out of an orthodox stance. He is one of the most active strikers in the division, landing 6.04 significant strikes per minute at 42 percent accuracy, and has demonstrated consistent pressure throughout his championship reign.

Chimaev will be stepping in as the challenger making his first title defense, according to the summary, suggesting the championship picture has shifted heading into fight week. The Chechen-born contender has long been regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters in the 185-pound division, known for blending elite wrestling with heavy striking volume.

Why it matters

• Strickland's experience in championship bouts — now entering his fourth UFC title fight — gives him a familiarity with big-fight preparation that few middleweights can match.
• Chimaev's first defense represents a defining moment for his championship tenure, with a loss returning him to contender status.
• The stylistic matchup pits Strickland's relentless forward pressure and high strike output against Chimaev's smothering grappling and power, setting up a contrast in approaches that has divided the division's attention for months.

The release of official promotional photos signals the final promotional push is underway, with UFC 328 just days away.