NEWARK, N.J. – In a night filled with grit, strategy, and sportsmanship, Sean Strickland etched his name deeper into UFC history by reclaiming the middleweight championship at UFC 328. Facing the previously undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, Strickland delivered a masterclass in survival and tactical striking, earning a split-decision victory (48-47, 47-48, 48-47) that had the Prudential Center on its feet.
From the opening bell, Chimaev came forward with his signature pressure, taking Strickland down nine times over the course of the fight. But here’s where Strickland’s experience shined: he did what no one else—including former champion Dricus du Plessis—could do. He not only got back to his feet repeatedly but also fended off Chimaev’s submission attempts with calm precision. The turning point came in the second round, when Chimaev’s relentless pace began to fade, and that fatigue carried into the third. Strickland capitalized, landing cleaner shots and controlling the octagon.
Chimaev showed his championship heart in round four, rebounding to even the score. But the fifth and final round was a chess match. Chimaev scored an early takedown, but Strickland’s defense kept him from inflicting damage or establishing control. In the final minute, with the fight hanging in the balance, Strickland stuffed a critical takedown attempt and outlanded his opponent on the feet—sealing the win on two of the three judges’ scorecards.
What made this fight truly special wasn’t just the technical brilliance—it was the respect. After weeks of heated trash talk and bad blood, the two warriors buried the animosity mid-fight, repeatedly showing each other respect in the clinch. When the decision was announced, Chimaev surprised everyone by wrapping the belt around Strickland’s waist in a moment of pure class. It was a reminder that, at its core, mixed martial arts is about warriors honoring each other’s craft.
Strickland now joins Israel Adesanya as the only two-time middleweight champions in UFC history. On a night that honored former champion Chris Weidman with a Hall of Fame call, Strickland’s performance made one thing clear: his legacy is already Hall of Fame-worthy.
Full UFC 328 Results:
Main Event: Sean Strickland def. Khamzat Chimaev via split decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47) – Middleweight Title
Co-Main Event: Joshua Van def. Tatsuro Taira via TKO (R5, 1:32) – Flyweight Title
Bonus Winners:
Fight of the Night: Joshua Van vs. Tatsuro Taira ($50,000 each)
Performances of the Night: Jim Miller, Yaroslav Amosov ($50,000 each)
Whether you’re celebrating Strickland’s redemption or gearing up for your own fight camp, UFC 328 proved that heart and strategy never go out of style. Gear up like a champion at our store—because every great fight starts with the right apparel.