Strickland apologizes to fans after title win, praises Chimaev's toughness

In his post-fight speech at UFC 328, Sean Strickland apologized to his American, Christian, and Muslim fans, admitting he went too far in promoting the fight. He acknowledged overstepping and said he should have been a better example. Strickland praised Chimaev as a beast and noted the Chechen fighters' quality, saying Chimaev possibly broke his nose and kept coming forward despite being hit with everything. He thanked fans of all backgrounds, saying "we're all Americans" and expressing love for his Christian, Muslim, white, black, and brown supporters. The speech represented a conciliatory tone following his championship victory.