An analysis of the UFC 328 press conference found that while Chimaev and Strickland delivered energy and intensity, the substance was lacking. Chimaev's approach focused on Strickland's childhood trauma, while Strickland attacked Chimaev regarding Kadyrov, Chechnya, dictatorship, and accusations of cowardice for traveling with an entourage. Neither fighter adapted their strategy mid-conference or introduced new angles. Chimaev's line repeated Du Plessis's earlier approach that made Strickland cry, but this time Strickland was prepared. Strickland's political comments about immigration were more emotionally invested than McGregor's attacks on Khabib, but Chimaev largely ignored them. The author concluded that while the visual of armed security in body armor added drama, the content was essentially zero with no development of the actual conflict.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
