UFC 328 is set to host a highly anticipated middleweight championship showdown, as the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev prepares for his inaugural title defense against his intense rival and former champion, Sean Strickland. This electrifying event is scheduled for May 9 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, a matchup officially confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White.
Chimaev, who boasts a perfect 15-0 professional record, seized the 185-pound championship at UFC 319 last August following a dominant performance against then-titleholder Dricus du Plessis. Standing opposite him, Sean Strickland (30-7) aims to reclaim his spot at the top. Strickland recently bounced back from a prior loss to du Plessis with an impressive bonus-winning TKO victory over Anthony Hernandez in February.
The upcoming bout is fueled by a significant personal history between the two fighters. Chimaev and Strickland, once training partners, have seen their relationship evolve into a heated rivalry, frequently exchanging jabs on social media and during interviews. Strickland has been particularly vocal about his belief that he is the sole fighter capable of defeating Chimaev, and he will now have the opportunity to prove his claim on the sport’s grandest stage. This event also marks the UFC’s twelfth visit to the city of Newark.
