Sean Strickland responded to Khamzat Chimaev striking him during their faceoff by calling him a coward. The incident occurred at the UFC 328 staredown when tensions escalated between the fighters. A transcript reveals Strickland taunted Chimaev by saying he wouldn't do anything, to which Chimaev responded by striking Strickland's leg. Dana White attempted to calm the fighters before the physical contact occurred. Strickland later posted that this was exactly what he expected from someone he considers cowardly. The altercation has further intensified the rivalry ahead of their middleweight title bout.
UFC 328
Saturday, May 9, 2026
