Strickland upsets Chimaev to reclaim the UFC middleweight title
At UFC 328 in Newark, a split-decision win over Khamzat Chimaev makes Sean Strickland a two-time middleweight champion.
Key points
- UFC 328 (May 9, 2026, Newark)
- Split-decision win over Chimaev
- Strickland is a two-time UFC middleweight champion
- Out-landed Chimaev 163-115 in total strikes
At UFC 328 on May 9, 2026, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, Sean Strickland reclaimed the UFC middleweight title with a split-decision win over Khamzat Chimaev — two judges scoring it 48-47 for Strickland, a third 48-47 for Chimaev.
It makes Strickland a two-time champion. The fight was a study in contrast: Chimaev dominated the opening round with his wrestling, pinning Strickland to the canvas, but from the second the challenger stuffed takedowns and turned the tables, controlling from top position. Strickland out-landed Chimaev 163-115 in total strikes.
With his fortress defense and forward pressure, Strickland pulled off another upset, ending Chimaev's aura of invincibility and reshaping the middleweight picture.