Multiple training partners have weighed in on Sean Strickland's wrestling defense ahead of his UFC 328 bout with Khamzat Chimaev. Luke Rockhold stated Strickland is extremely difficult to hold down despite not being a high-level grappler, calling him Chimaev's toughest test. Jorge Masvidal echoed this assessment, noting Strickland trains with heavyweights and is incredibly hard to control on the ground. Training partner Sharaf Davlatmurodov said Strickland constantly works with collegiate wrestlers and is skilled at standing back up and breaking grips, predicting Chimaev could only hold him for about 1.5 rounds. Analysis suggests Strickland's ability to create frames and execute wrestling-based escapes will be crucial, though observers note his past performances against Dricus Du Plessis and Kamaru Usaman show vulnerabilities against elite grapplers.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
