Joe Rogan offered his analysis of why Khamzat Chimaev underperformed in his fight against Sean Strickland at UFC 328. Rogan suggested that Chimaev's preparation may have been significantly affected by initially planning to fight Jiri Prochazka for the light heavyweight title, which would have required him to bulk up in weight. There had been widespread rumors before the Strickland fight that Chimaev was scheduled to face Prochazka at light heavyweight. This theory was also supported by Chimaev's sparring partner Khalil Rountree, who confirmed in an interview long before the Strickland bout that Chimaev had been preparing for a move to 205 pounds. The weight cut and training adjustments may have played a major role in Chimaev's cardio issues during the fight.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
