Sean Strickland won a split decision over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 despite being heavily underestimated. The author scored the fight 3-2 for Strickland and was surprised it was a split decision, with judge Sue Sanidad scoring the fifth round for Chimaev. Strickland produced his second major upset in recent years after his victory over Israel Adesanya, while Chimaev showed similarities to his performance against Kamaru Usman in terms of early dominance followed by cardio issues. Chimaev is expected to move up to light heavyweight, potentially facing Paulo Costa, while Strickland may face Nassourdine Imavov next. The author questioned why both fighters showed friendliness before and during the bout after months of hostile promotion, including Chimaev saying "I Love You" to Strickland mid-fight.
Sean Strickland pulled off another stunning result at UFC 328 on May 9, defeating Khamzat Chimaev by split decision to retain his middleweight championship in a fight that will be remembered as much for its bizarre atmosphere as its competitive action.
Strickland, 35, improved his record to 31-7-0 with the victory, cementing his status as one of the most dangerous underdogs in the sport. The American southpaw out of Xtreme Couture is a relentless volume striker, averaging 6.04 significant strikes per minute with a 76-inch reach that keeps opponents honest at range. The win marks his second major upset in recent years, following his shock title capture over Israel Adesanya. Strickland is now being linked with a potential next defense against Nassourdine Imavov.
Chimaev entered the fight as a heavy favorite but reportedly faded as the bout wore on, drawing comparisons to his middleweight contest against Kamaru Usman, where early dominance gave way to cardio concerns in the championship rounds. Judge Sue Sanidad was the lone dissenting voice on the scorecards, awarding the fifth round to the Chechen-born knockout artist, making it a split rather than a unanimous decision.
Why it matters
- Strickland's second major upset win cements him as a legitimate long-term middleweight champion, not a one-fight fluke
- Chimaev's cardio questions resurface at the highest level, and a reported move to light heavyweight could reshape two divisions
- A potential Chimaev matchup with Paulo Costa at 205 pounds would pit two of the sport's most aggressive pressure fighters against each other
- Strickland versus Imavov would be a title fight with strong divisional stakes, given the challenger's rising profile
Adding an unusual footnote to the contest, Chimaev reportedly told Strickland "I love you" during the fight itself — a striking contrast to months of hostile pre-fight promotion between the two camps that left many observers questioning the sincerity of the build-up.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
