Following their fight, Khamzat Chimaev addressed Sean Strickland directly on social media with a brief message suggesting they will meet again soon. The post includes a saluting emoji, indicating respect despite the competitive rivalry. The message has sparked debate among fans about whether an immediate rematch is warranted or if Chimaev should move up to light heavyweight instead. No official announcement has been made about either fighter's next bout. The social media exchange comes as both fighters and the UFC evaluate the aftermath of their UFC 328 encounter.
Khamzat Chimaev took to social media on May 10 to send a pointed message to middleweight champion Sean Strickland, hinting that their rivalry is far from finished following their UFC 328 encounter. The brief post, which included a saluting gesture suggesting respect for his opponent, has ignited widespread fan discussion over whether an immediate rematch is warranted or whether Chimaev should instead pursue opportunities at light heavyweight.
Sean Strickland, known as "Tarzan," holds the middleweight title at 31-7-0 and enters the post-fight period as champion. The 35-year-old American, who trains out of Xtreme Couture and stands six feet one inch tall with a 76-inch reach, is one of the division's most active strikers, landing 6.04 significant strikes per minute. His 42 percent striking accuracy reflects a high-volume approach that has carried him to the top of the 185-pound division.
Chimaev, nicknamed "Borz," carries a record of 15-1-0 and holds the number-one middleweight ranking as well as the tenth spot in the pound-for-pound rankings. The 32-year-old fighting out of the UAE for Allstars Training Center stands six feet two inches with a 75-inch reach. His 60 percent striking accuracy is elite, and his grappling credentials are equally formidable — he averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes and 1.8 submission attempts over the same span.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's social media message keeps the possibility of a middleweight title rematch firmly in the public conversation
- Both fighters remain unconfirmed for their next bouts, leaving the UFC with options at 185 pounds
- A potential move to light heavyweight for Chimaev would carry its own divisional implications at 205 pounds
- The style matchup pits Strickland's volume striking against Chimaev's elite takedown pressure and grappling aggression
No official announcement regarding either fighter's next scheduled contest has been made by the UFC.
