Multiple fighters and training partners have weighed in on Sean Strickland's grappling defense ahead of his UFC 328 main event against Hamzat Chimaev. Luke Rockhold stated that Strickland is extremely difficult to hold down despite not being exceptional at grappling, calling him the toughest test for Chimaev. Jorge Masvidal confirmed witnessing Strickland's ability to get back to his feet even against heavyweights in training. Training partner Sharaf Davlatmurodov noted that Strickland works constantly with collegiate wrestlers and excels at standing back up and breaking wrist control. The analysis suggests Strickland's defensive grappling relies more on wrestling-based escapes and creating frames rather than technical guard work. Historical context includes Strickland's ability to repeatedly stand up after six takedowns against Dricus Du Plessis, though the author questions whether he can replicate this against Chimaev's superior speed and control.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
