A commentator expressed unexpected satisfaction with Sean Strickland's victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328, noting the irrational nature of the feeling. The writer highlighted how Strickland has been underestimated for years, dismissed as a "passing champion," and was fed to Chimaev to create a major main event. Instead, Strickland delivered his second major upset in recent years (after Adesanya) and ruined countless betting parlays. The analysis notes that Chimaev fought well, showed heart, broke Strickland's nose, and had no ultimate answers to Strickland's basic skillset. The columnist scored it 3-2 for Strickland and was surprised by the split decision. Looking ahead, Chimaev is expected to move to light heavyweight, potentially facing Paulo Costa, while Strickland may defend against Nassourdine Imavov. The piece also questioned why the fighters showed respect before the bout after months of bitter build-up.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
