UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev is set to make the first defense of his title against former champion Sean Strickland. The highly anticipated bout will headline the UFC 328 card scheduled for May 10.
Chimaev, who remains undefeated, captured the middleweight championship in August 2025. He secured the belt with a unanimous decision victory over South Africa's Dricus du Plessis, establishing himself as the division's top fighter.
Speaking ahead of the event, Chimaev offered a candid assessment of his upcoming opponent. "I love this shit guy, tomorrow I will show it to all of you," the champion stated in a video, expressing a mix of respect and competitive fire toward Strickland.
Sean Strickland enters the contest as a former middleweight champion himself. The American fighter previously held the title and will be looking to reclaim the championship he once owned by dethroning the current king of the division.
The matchup represents a significant moment for both athletes. For Chimaev, it is an opportunity to solidify his reign and prove his championship credentials against a proven former titleholder. For Strickland, it is a chance to regain the gold and reassert himself among the elite at 185 pounds.
UFC 328 promises to deliver a compelling main event between two of the middleweight division's most prominent figures. The champion's confident words have only added to the anticipation surrounding this clash of champions.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.