The UFC 328 press conference between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland delivered exceptional drama and emotion, breaking from the typically mundane UFC presser format. Chimaev appeared more fired up than at any point since his fight with Gilbert Burns, actually out-shouting the notoriously vocal Strickland. Strickland made provocative statements directly to Chimaev's face about sensitive topics including Chechnya and Ramzan Kadyrov, showing boldness despite pre-event doubts he would do so. The author noted armed security in bulletproof vests present at the event. Despite the intense emotion, the author remains skeptical of Strickland's chances, viewing fan hope for a competitive fight as wishful thinking rather than realistic assessment.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
