In a sport built on second chances, Sean Strickland has made history by becoming a two-time UFC middleweight champion—and he did it in the most dramatic fashion possible.

Saturday night at Newark's Prudential Center, Strickland (31-7 MMA, 18-7 UFC) pulled off another stunning upset, dethroning the previously undefeated Khamzat Chimaev (15-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) via split decision at UFC 328. While it wasn't the one-sided masterpiece he delivered against Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in September 2023, this victory might be even more impressive given the hype surrounding "The Wolf" and his perfect record.

Strickland had promised he had all the answers for Chimaev, and he backed it up. Now at 35, the outspoken fighter has elevated his career and legacy to new heights, cementing himself as one of the greatest middleweights ever. But the work isn't done yet.

The biggest challenge ahead? Doing what he couldn't during his first reign: successfully defend the belt. Strickland's initial title run lasted just 132 days before Dricus Du Plessis snatched it away. To make this second chapter last, he'll likely need to face Nassourdine Imavov (17-4 MMA, 9-2 UFC), who's riding a five-fight winning streak and has earned his first shot at gold.

Interestingly, these two have history. Strickland defeated Imavov by unanimous decision in a short-notice light heavyweight main event at UFC Fight Night 217 back in January 2023. Since that loss, Imavov hasn't tasted defeat, and a rematch would be fascinating—especially with both fighters carrying more experience and confidence into the octagon.

Speaking to MMA Junkie after his win, Strickland said he wants to do right by the rankings and fight the top contender, acknowledging that's Imavov. Now, it's up to the UFC to make the rematch happen. For fans, this is the fight that makes the most sense—and the one that could define Strickland's legacy as more than just a one-hit wonder.