UFC 328: Keeping Chimaev and Strickland Apart - Dana White's Security Plan

The UFC's Chimaev vs. Strickland Rivalry Becomes a Logistical Nightmare

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:25am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the explosive movements and raw emotions of a UFC fight, capturing the essence of the Chimaev vs. Strickland rivalry without any identifiable elements.As tensions over the UFC's biggest rivalries escalate, a recent wave of targeted pre-fight chaos exposes the challenges of managing fighter egos and protecting the integrity of the sport.San Diego Today

When rivalries in combat sports become too real, they can turn into security nightmares for organizations like the UFC. Ahead of UFC 328, the feud between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland has become so intense that Dana White has had to take extreme measures to keep the fighters apart, including putting them in separate hotels. This situation highlights the challenges the UFC faces in managing high-stakes rivalries and protecting the integrity of its events.

Why it matters

The Chimaev-Strickland rivalry is a test case for how the UFC handles genuine feuds moving forward. If they can keep the fighters apart until fight night, it will be a win for the organization. But if things go sideways, it could set a dangerous precedent and redefine how the UFC manages fighter egos and event security.

The details

In three previous incidents, police said Khamzat Chimaev has been accused of damaging Waymo autonomous vehicles in San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood since July by removing and swinging his belt, placing a cone on the dome and sensors of the car, damaging the tires and driver's side mirror, and stomping on the windshield.

  • On July 4, Chimaev allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Chimaev allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Chimaev allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Khamzat Chimaev

An undefeated UFC fighter with a reputation for being an unstoppable force and having a chip on his shoulder.

Sean Strickland

A UFC fighter known for his provocative behavior and thriving on chaos, creating a genuine rivalry with Chimaev.

Dana White

The president of the UFC who has had to take extreme measures to keep Chimaev and Strickland apart ahead of their fight at UFC 328.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.