Chimaev Defends Middleweight Title Against Strickland at UFC 328

The Chechen champion faces a stern endurance test against the former titleholder in New Jersey.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:39am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the Chimaev vs. Strickland UFC middleweight title fight, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the raw energy and intensity of the matchup.The high-stakes middleweight title clash between champion Khamzat Chimaev and former titleholder Sean Strickland promises a thrilling clash of contrasting styles in the Octagon.Chicago Today

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev will defend his title against former champion Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 328 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. In the co-main event, flyweight champion Joshua Van makes his first title defense against rising contender Tatsuro Taira.

Why it matters

This highly anticipated matchup pits Chimaev's relentless grappling pressure against Strickland's disciplined Philly shell boxing and volume striking. The winner will cement their status as one of the top middleweights in the UFC.

The details

Chimaev extended his perfect record to 15-0 with a dominant win over Dricus Du Plessis to capture the 185-pound title. Strickland secured his shot by halting the eight-fight surge of Anthony Hernandez. The bad blood between the two fighters has been brewing since their intense sparring sessions at Xtreme Couture. Chimaev holds a clear wrestling advantage, but Strickland's striking presents a different puzzle with his stiff jab and relentless pace.

  • UFC 328 will take place on May 10, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey.
  • Chimaev last defended his title at UFC 319 in Chicago in 2025.
  • Strickland last fought at UFC Houston, where he defeated Anthony Hernandez.

The players

Khamzat Chimaev

The undefeated Chechen fighter is the current UFC middleweight champion, known for his relentless grappling pressure and dominant performances.

Sean Strickland

A former UFC middleweight champion, Strickland is a disciplined boxer with a strong jab and high-volume striking style.

Joshua Van

The reigning UFC flyweight champion, making his first title defense against rising contender Tatsuro Taira in the co-main event.

Tatsuro Taira

A rising contender in the UFC flyweight division, earning a title shot against champion Joshua Van.

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What’s next

The winner of the Chimaev-Strickland main event will likely face the winner of the co-main event between flyweight champion Joshua Van and challenger Tatsuro Taira.

The takeaway

This high-stakes middleweight title fight pits Chimaev's dominant grappling against Strickland's disciplined boxing, setting up a compelling clash of styles that will determine the future of the 185-pound division.