Sean Strickland's split decision victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 marked his second major upset after previously defeating Israel Adesanya. The author argues it was a clear 3-2 rounds for Strickland despite split decision, questioning judge Sue Sanidad's fifth round scoring for Chimaev. The piece notes Chimaev showed heart and even broke Strickland's nose, but expectations were different. Parallels are drawn to Chimaev's fight against Usman, with similar cardio decline patterns. Post-fight, Chimaev appears ready to move to light heavyweight with potential matchup against Paulo Costa, while Strickland could face Nassourdine Imavov in a rematch. The author questions the pre-fight reconciliation between fighters who had built months of animosity.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
