Vlad Matveev proposed a theory that Khamzat Chimaev may have been preparing for a light heavyweight debut but plans changed at the last moment, which could explain his cardio issues against Strickland. The post notes that Chimaev's conditioning lasted only one round despite working with top sports science professionals. Strickland apologized for going too far in promoting the fight, though the damage to Chimaev's aura remains. The writer also commented on Chimaev's friendly demeanor during the bout, including hugging and smiling at Strickland, which contradicted the pre-fight animosity. Chimaev reportedly laid under Strickland as early as the second round.
A theory has emerged suggesting Khamzat Chimaev may have been preparing to compete at light heavyweight ahead of UFC 328 on May 9, with plans reportedly changing at the last moment — a possible explanation, according to analyst Vlad Matveev, for the conditioning issues Chimaev displayed during his middleweight bout against Sean Strickland. Because the claim originates from an unconfirmed report, it should be treated with caution.
Chimaev, 32, entered the contest as the number-one ranked middleweight and the tenth-ranked fighter pound-for-pound, carrying a 15-1 record and widely regarded as one of the most dangerous finishers in the sport. Fighting out of Allstars Training Center and representing the United Arab Emirates, the six-foot-two, 188-centimeter Borz averages an elite 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes and lands 60 percent of his significant strikes. The theory posits that despite working with high-level sports science professionals, his conditioning held up for only one round, which the report links to a potential weight-class change that never materialized.
Sean Strickland, the reigning middleweight champion, improved to 31-7 with the performance. The 35-year-old from the United States trains out of Xtreme Couture and fights out of an orthodox stance, standing six-foot-one with a 76-inch reach. Strickland lands 6.04 significant strikes per minute, among the highest output rates in the division. Following the fight, he reportedly apologized for going too far in his promotional conduct leading into the event.
Why it matters
- If the light heavyweight theory holds any truth, it raises questions about Chimaev's future divisional home
- Chimaev's aura of invincibility, built over a near-flawless career, has taken a notable hit regardless of the cause
- Reports of Chimaev hugging and smiling at Strickland during the bout contradicted the intense pre-fight rivalry the two had projected publicly
- Strickland's dominance reinforces his standing as a legitimate, active champion at 185 pounds
Saturday, May 9, 2026
