Sean Strickland reclaimed the UFC middleweight title at UFC 328 in New Jersey, beating previously undefeated Khamzat Chimaev by split decision. The judges scored the fight 48-47, 48-47 and 47-48.
Fight summary
The title fight started with Khamzat Chimaev using his wrestling. He got early takedowns and kept Strickland pressed against the cage. Chimaev tried several rear-naked choke attempts in the first round, but Strickland defended and survived to the bell.
Strickland answered in the second round. He mixed strikes and defended takedowns better, then spent time on top in half-guard. That top control was important as Chimaev appeared to tire.
From the third round on both men traded more on the feet. Chimaev kept pressing forward with jabs, kicks and body shots. Strickland found space for his jab and right hand throughout the fight. The final rounds were close, with Chimaev pressing and trying takedowns while Strickland used his striking and some late takedown defense.
Round-by-round highlights
Round 1: Chimaev dominated early with takedowns and back control. He nearly finished with a choke but Strickland escaped and survived the round.
Round 2: Strickland slowed Chimaev’s takedown attempts and got top position. He landed strikes from top and spent valuable time controlling the action.
Round 3: Both men traded jabs and kicks. Chimaev landed to the nose and body, while Strickland kept working his jab and right hand.
Round 4: Chimaev looked refreshed, marched forward, and mixed leg and body kicks with punches. He secured a late takedown and worked toward Strickland’s back.
Round 5: The final round stayed competitive. Chimaev got a quick takedown and pressed in the clinch, while Strickland landed key rights and stuck to his jab in the closing moments.
Decision and significance
The split decision gave Strickland the win and ended Chimaev’s perfect record. This is the first career loss for Chimaev. It also marks another big upset for Strickland, who earlier in his career ended Israel Adesanya’s long title reign. The fight showed two different styles: Chimaev’s wrestling and forward pressure versus Strickland’s striking, jab work and moments of top control.
Judges scored the bout 48-47, 48-47 for Strickland and 48-47 for Chimaev on the third card, producing the split decision. The title now returns to Strickland.
Fighter results
| Fighter | Recent Result |
|---|---|
| Sean Strickland | Won by split decision to reclaim middleweight title |
| Khamzat Chimaev | Lost by split decision; first career loss |
Source: UFCcoverage
