Analyst suggests Chimaev may have prepared for light heavyweight debut

A post-UFC 328 analysis suggests Khamzat Chimaev may have been preparing for a light heavyweight debut before plans changed at the last moment. The author questions how Chimaev, who worked with top-level sports science professionals, could have only one round of cardio if properly prepared for middleweight. The piece compares Joshua Van vs. Kai Asakura to the Moreno-Figueiredo rivalry for a younger generation, predicting future title fights between them. Alexander Volkov is noted as receiving favorable decisions in two consecutive close fights, described as "cashback" for his controversial loss to Ciryl Gane. The analysis criticizes damage to Chimaev's aura after he repeatedly showed friendliness toward Strickland during the fight despite the pre-fight animosity.