,Sean Strickland is champion again. In a stunning upset at UFC 328, Strickland outlasted Khamzat Chimaev over five grueling rounds to earn a split decision victory and reclaim the UFC middleweight title.
Judges scored the fight 48-47, 48-47 for Strickland, with one dissenting card for Chimaev enough for Strickland to complete the upset and halt the rise of one of MMA’s most dominant forces.
The Jab That Changed Everything
Strickland’s game plan was simple and relentless. Behind a constant, snapping jab, he battered Chimaev for the majority of the fight, using volume and accuracy to slowly take control after a difficult opening round.
Chimaev (15-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) looked every bit the favorite early.
- Secured a takedown within seconds
- Controlled position on the ground
- Threatened with submissions
The first round appeared to set the tone but it didn’t last. From Round 2 on, Strickland flipped the fight.
- Defended takedowns effectively
- Even reversed position at times
- Began dictating the pace with his jab
Chimaev’s explosive style started to fade as the fight entered deeper waters.
Championship Rounds Decide It
The later rounds were a war of attrition. Chimaev had moments including a strong fourth round with a takedown and heavy strikes but his conditioning became a factor.
Strickland stayed composed, continued to land his jab, and controlled the tempo down the stretch. That consistency proved to be the difference on the scorecards.
Respect After the War
Despite heated buildup, both fighters showed respect afterward. Chimaev even placed the belt around Strickland’s waist before exiting the octagon a rare moment of sportsmanship.
Strickland, meanwhile, took time to address his pre-fight comments. “I just want to apologize… I went too hard, I respect all you guys.”
He also praised his opponent: “That guy would not go back… he’s a savage.”
With the victory, Sean Strickland:
- Becomes a two-time UFC champion
- Hands Chimaev his first career loss
- Reclaims his place at the top of the division
For Khamzat Chimaev, the loss raises questions about endurance at the highest level but does little to diminish his status as an elite contender.
Sean Strickland didn’t outwrestle Khamzat Chimaev. He outlasted him. And in doing so, he shocked the world and took his belt back.
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Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
