The UFC 328 press conference succeeded in delivering energy and intensity but lacked substantive exchanges between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland. Neither fighter effectively responded to the other's arguments or developed the conflict beyond surface-level insults. Chimaev's approach centered on Strickland's childhood trauma, while Strickland focused on Kadyrov, Chechnya, and accusations of Chimaev traveling with an entourage. Chimaev's strategy mirrored Dricus Du Plessis's previous approach that brought Strickland to tears, but Strickland was prepared this time. Strickland delivered far more provocative material than Conor McGregor did against Khabib Nurmagomedov, but Chimaev largely ignored the substance. The presence of armed security in body armor added dramatic effect. While the content was limited, the emotional intensity was undeniable, though it remains unclear which fighter expended more energy or was more genuinely affected by the confrontation.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
