Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev in a split-decision victory at UFC 328, reclaiming the UFC middleweight championship. The fight, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, marked Chimaev's first professional loss after 16 undefeated bouts. Strickland, who had previously held the title, won two of the three judges' scorecards (48-47) while Chimaev took the third (48-47).
Strickland's Injury and Performance
Strickland revealed post-fight that he had suffered a grade-one AC joint separation in his shoulder during sparring earlier in the week. Despite the injury, he managed to outlast Chimaev over five rounds, surviving a strong fourth-round performance by Chimaev where the Russian fighter dominated with strikes and takedowns. Strickland's resilience was evident as he weathered a broken nose and fatigue to secure the victory.
Pre-Fight Controversy and Apology
Prior to the fight, Strickland had engaged in heated trash talk with Chimaev, including controversial remarks about Chimaev's ties to Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov. Strickland later apologized for his comments, stating, 'I apologize to my American fans, my Muslim fans, and my Christian fans. I took things too far. I admit it. I respect all of you. I should have been a better example.'
Post-Fight Reactions
UFC President Dana White confirmed that Chimaev expressed interest in moving up to a higher weight class following the loss. The fight was closely watched by fans and analysts, with many surprised by Strickland's ability to overcome both Chimaev's skill and his own injury.