Former UFC interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier has weighed in with his prediction for the highly anticipated UFC 328 main event. The bout features undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev, representing the UAE, against former middleweight champion Sean Strickland. The fight is scheduled for the UFC 328 pay-per-view card, with the UFC middleweight championship (up to 84 kg) on the line.
In his analysis, Poirier expressed strong confidence in a Chimaev victory. He stated he is "almost certain" that Chimaev will overcome Strickland. The core of his reasoning centers on Strickland's ability to defend against Chimaev's elite wrestling and takedown attempts. Poirier noted that no opponent has successfully managed to consistently stop Chimaev's takedowns, and he does not believe Strickland will be the first to crack that code.
Poirier acknowledged that Strickland possesses respectable takedown defense, but emphasized that facing Chimaev presents a completely different and more severe challenge. He pointed to Strickland's footwork as a potential liability, stating it is "not the best." For Strickland to have a chance, his footwork would need to be at an exceptionally high level to prevent Chimaev from reading and anticipating his movements and closing the distance.
The path to victory for Strickland, according to Poirier, is narrow and demanding. He believes Strickland must prioritize staying off the cage at all costs. Poirier observed that Strickland heavily relies on his lead leg for his striking offense, using effective jabs and body kicks. However, he concluded that while these tools are useful, they may not be sufficient to fundamentally change the trajectory of the fight against a force like Chimaev.
The prediction from a respected veteran like Poirier adds another layer of intrigue to a championship fight already generating significant buzz. Chimaev's undefeated record and dominant performances have made him a formidable force, while Strickland's technical striking and toughness present a classic striker-versus-grappler matchup at the highest level.
UFC 328 is shaping up to be a pivotal event in the middleweight division. The outcome will not only determine the next champion but also potentially set the course for the division's future. All eyes will be on whether Strickland can defy the odds and expert predictions, or if Chimaev will continue his unstoppable rise to the top of the sport.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.