Strickland Defeats Chimaev in Split Decision, Likely Moving to Light Heavyweight

Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev via split decision to reclaim middleweight gold, marking his second major upset after previously beating Israel Adesanya. Strickland was heavily doubted heading into the fight but maintained his standard technical approach throughout. Chimaev showed heart and broke Strickland's nose but faded after a dominant first round, similar to his pattern against Kamaru Usman. One judge, Sue Sanidad, controversially scored round five for Chimaev despite it being Strickland's clearest round. Chimaev indicated immediate plans to move to light heavyweight rather than pursue a rematch, with a potential matchup against Paulo Costa on the horizon. Strickland's next title defense will likely come against Nassourdine Imavov, as the promotion chose not to use Chimaev for that matchup.