Get ready for an inside look at the final countdown to UFC 328! The first episode of UFC 328 Embedded is here, and it's packed with intensity, celebration, and last-minute preparations. From birthday cakes to bulldozers, here's what went down as the fighters made their final push toward fight night.
We kick things off with Sean Strickland, who's not just preparing for war in the Octagon—he's literally reshaping his backyard. The former middleweight champion was spotted bulldozing his yard ahead of some construction, proving that even the most intense fighters need a little home improvement to clear their minds before a title bout. It's a stark contrast to the chaos we know he'll bring to the cage.
Speaking of champions, Khamzat Chimaev celebrated his birthday in the most fitting way possible: surrounded by his team at the gym. The reigning middleweight king kept his focus sharp even while blowing out candles, sending a clear message that he's locked in for his first title defense. Expect nothing less than explosive energy when he steps into the Prudential Center on May 9.
Out in Colorado, flyweight contender Tatsuro Taira is putting in serious work alongside some of the best in the business. He's been training with fellow UFC stars Cory Sandhagen and interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, soaking up knowledge from two of the most dynamic fighters in the sport. It's a masterclass in preparation, and it's clear Taira is leaving no stone unturned.
But the episode isn't all grind—Joel Alvarez brought the fun to Coney Island, hitting the thrill rides with a smile. It's a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of UFC, fighters know how to enjoy the journey. Meanwhile, King Green wrapped up his camp in California, fine-tuning his game plan, and Joshua Van pushed his cardio to the limit with some intense training ahead of what promises to be a grueling title defense.
UFC 328 goes down on May 9 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, with a massive middleweight title fight headlining the card: champion Khamzat Chimaev vs. former titleholder Sean Strickland. If this first episode of Embedded is any indication, we're in for a wild ride until fight night.