A detailed analysis of Sean Strickland's split decision victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 suggests the result, while surprising to many, followed a familiar pattern. The author scored the fight 3-2 for Strickland and was surprised by the split decision, noting judge Sue Sanidad controversially gave the fifth round to Chimaev despite not having judged a UFC event since 2014. The analysis notes Chimaev showed a similar pattern to his fight with Usman: dominant first-round wrestling, cardio decline, then struggling in later rounds. Strickland employed his standard skillset effectively, and Chimaev had no ultimate answers. The post suggests Chimaev will likely move up to light heavyweight, with a potential matchup against Paulo Costa, while Strickland could face Nassourdine Imavov in his next title defense. The author questioned the pre-fight reconciliation between the fighters after months of building animosity.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
