Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev by split decision, securing his second major upset victory after previously defeating Israel Adesanya. Strickland, who many had written off as a stepping stone champion, proved doubters wrong again. The post notes Chimaev fought well despite expectations, breaking Strickland's nose and showing resilience throughout five rounds, though his cardio declined similarly to his fight against Kamaru Usman. The author scored the fight a clear 3-2 for Strickland, expressing surprise at the split decision, with judge Sue Sanidad controversially giving the fifth round to Chimaev. Chimaev has indicated interest in moving to light heavyweight, potentially facing Paulo Costa, while Strickland may defend against Nassourdine Imavov. Strickland now has six victories over current top-15 middleweights, an underrated resume achievement.
Sean Strickland pulled off the remarkable feat of a second major upset on Saturday, May 10, defeating Khamzat Chimaev by split decision to reclaim the UFC middleweight championship.
Strickland, 35, improves to 31-7 and now holds the middleweight title for the second time after previously shocking the division by outpointing Israel Adesanya. Fighting out of Xtreme Couture, the orthodox six-foot-one American has built one of the division's most underappreciated resumes, with six victories over current top-15 middleweights. He lands 6.04 significant strikes per minute and carries a 76-inch reach that allows him to control range across long championship rounds.
Chimaev pushed Strickland hard throughout five rounds, breaking the champion's nose and showing the resilience that has defined his career. However, his conditioning appeared to fade as the fight wore on — a pattern that also emerged in his bout against Kamaru Usman. The split decision surprised many observers, with judge Sue Sanidad controversially awarding the fifth round to Chimaev. The fight was scored 3-2 in favor of Strickland by most who watched it closely.
Adesanya, whom Strickland famously dethroned in his first run as champion, stands at 24-6 and is currently ranked eighth in the division. The Nigerian striker out of City Kickboxing remains among the elite at 185 pounds despite that defeat.
Why it matters
- Strickland's second title reign cements him as a legitimate middleweight force rather than a fortunate champion
- Chimaev has signaled interest in moving to light heavyweight, potentially setting up a future bout with Paulo Costa, who sits ranked thirteenth at middleweight with a 16-4 record
- Nassourdine Imavov has been mentioned as a possible next challenger for Strickland's title defense
- The divisional landscape at 185 pounds remains unsettled with Chimaev potentially departing the weight class
