Khamzat Chimaev was the last fighter to step on the scales at the UFC 328 weigh-ins. According to reports, he successfully cut a total of 21 kg to make the 185-pound middleweight limit for his championship bout against Sean Strickland. The significant weight cut raised questions about whether he would make weight, but he ultimately hit the championship limit. This substantial cut demonstrates the physical toll Chimaev endured in preparation for Saturday's title fight.
Khamzat Chimaev stepped on the scales last among all fighters at the UFC 328 weigh-ins, successfully cutting a reported 21 kilograms to hit the 185-pound middleweight championship limit ahead of his title bout against Sean Strickland on Saturday.
The sheer size of the cut drew attention throughout fight week, with questions circling over whether Chimaev would come in on time. He ultimately made the championship mark, clearing the way for the main event to proceed as scheduled.
Chimaev, known as "Borz," carries a 15-1-0 professional record and enters the contest ranked first in the middleweight division and tenth in the pound-for-pound standings. The 32-year-old, who represents the United Arab Emirates and trains out of Allstars Training Center in Sweden, stands six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach. He fights out of an orthodox stance and has built his reputation on relentless pressure, posting a striking accuracy of 60 percent and averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes alongside 1.8 submission attempts per 15 minutes — numbers that reflect his all-around physical dominance inside the cage.
Why it matters
- A 21-kilogram cut to middleweight raises legitimate questions about Chimaev's long-term viability at 185 pounds.
- The bout carries championship stakes, with the middleweight title on the line.
- Chimaev's grappling-heavy style against Strickland sets up a compelling contrast in game plans.
- His ability to recover from such a substantial drain will be closely watched come fight night.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
