Chimaev's performance questioned after title loss to Strickland

Khamzat Chimaev's conditioning and performance dropped significantly after the first round of his title fight loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328. While Chimaev was dominant in round one, he appeared to fade in rounds two and three, abandoning his wrestling and grappling approach. Analysts speculate his 22-kilogram weight cut or potential injuries may have affected his performance. Despite the loss, Strickland's resume now includes victories over Chimaev (15-0), Adesanya (13-1 at middleweight), Imavov, Hernandez (on an eight-fight streak), and Paulo Costa. Potential next opponents for Chimaev include Borralho, Pyfer, Nickal, or a rematch with Du Plessis, while Strickland may face Imavov again.