A detailed analysis of the UFC 328 main event suggests Sean Strickland's victory over Khamzat Chimaev was a clear 3-2 rounds decision, with some surprise at the split decision. The analysis notes that Chimaev showed familiar patterns from his Usman fight: dominant first-round wrestling followed by cardio decline, leading to more striking exchanges and weakened wrestling later. Strickland displayed nothing new but his standard skillset proved sufficient, as Chimaev had no ultimate answers for it. The piece questions the pre-fight handshake and friendly gestures after months of heated promotion, particularly Chimaev saying "I love you" during the fight while fatigued. Following the loss, Chimaev is ready to move up to light heavyweight, with a potential matchup against Paulo Costa mentioned. For Strickland, a rematch with Nassourdine Imavov is suggested as a logical next step, with Strickland now holding six victories over current top-15 ranked opponents.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
