Luke Rockhold says Khamzat Chimaev will dominate Sean Strickland at UFC 328. Rockhold trained with Chimaev and spoke about the May 9 title fight in Newark, New Jersey.
Rockhold backs Chimaev
Rockhold made his support clear after training with Chimaev. He said Sean Strickland is tough and scrappy, but that Khamzat is much more talented. Rockhold said Chimaev knows what to do and can relax and use his game plan to put on a masterclass.
Rockhold also said Chimaev is in a better mental place for this title defense than he was on the run to the belt. He believes Chimaev will be able to be his best on fight night.
Strong words for Strickland
Rockhold did not stop at fight talk. He criticized Strickland’s character and public behavior. Rockhold said, ‘I would love to see him put this f***ing American away.’ He added that, while he is American, he supports good people and called Sean Strickland ‘a piece of s**t.’
The comments came after training and interviews where Rockhold made clear his personal backing of Chimaev over Strickland.
Fight details and recent history
The title fight is set for May 9 at UFC 328 in Newark, New Jersey. Chimaev will be defending his title. Strickland comes into the fight riding notable recent wins and a rise in popularity.
Recent results and notes:
| Fighter | Recent Result |
|---|---|
| Khamzat Chimaev | Current champion, defending title on May 9; trained with Luke Rockhold ahead of the fight |
| Sean Strickland | Knockout of Israel Adesanya at UFC 293; February win over Anthony Hernandez |
Pre-fight tension
The build-up has been heated. Chimaev suggested a street encounter with Strickland could be dangerous. Strickland fired back, saying Chimaev was the last person in America who should be making threats.
Rockhold said he doubts Strickland can get under Chimaev’s skin. He noted that Strickland “doesn’t roll as deep” as Chimaev and that the team around Khamzat will protect his focus. Rockhold added, ‘A fight’s a fight. You’ve got to play the game.’
The two fighters will meet on the big card in Newark, and the trash talk and personal attacks have added extra heat to what promises to be a closely watched title defense.
