Dana White says Khamzat Chimaev hit Sean Strickland below the belt at faceoff

Dana White admitted he was not vigilant enough during the faceoff between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland. White believes Chimaev struck Strickland below the belt during their confrontation, though a security guard on that side partially blocked the strike. The UFC president acknowledged that while some fighters show mutual respect, this situation represents one of the most intense real rivalries the promotion has witnessed. White's comments suggest the animosity between Chimaev and Strickland is genuine rather than manufactured for promotional purposes. The incident adds further tension to their upcoming UFC 328 matchup.