UFC 328 ended with Sean Strickland back on top of the middleweight division. Strickland reclaimed the UFC middleweight title Saturday night with a split decision victory against Khamzat Chimaev.
Early Takedowns for Chimaev
The fight started exactly as many expected. Chimaev exploded forward within seconds and secured an early takedown. He quickly worked toward Strickland’s back and threatened submissions while controlling much of the opening round on the mat.
Strickland stayed composed during the grappling exchanges. He defended a late choke attempt and survived the first five minutes despite spending most of the round underneath the champion.
Chimaev Flops to His Back in the second
In the second round. Strickland established his jab early and began disrupting any openings. When Chimaev finally shot for another takedown, Strickland defended and Chimaev seemd to pull guard rather than stand up.
From there, Strickland leaned heavily on his trademark pressure and volume striking. The jab repeatedly snapped Chimaev’s head back as the challenger slowly took control of the pace.
Back and Forth in Rounds 3 and 4
Round 3 saw Strickland continue piling up points behind straight punches and disciplined defense. Chimaev loaded up on looping shots but struggled to land consistently as fatigue started to show.
Chimaev found success again in the fourth round with body work and a late takedown. He connected with a hard right hand and mixed his attacks well, forcing Strickland to fall back at times.
Still, Strickland was consistent with his jab. Damage began building on Chimaev’s face as the fight moved into the final round.
Championship Rounds Seal the Title
Knowing the fight was close, Chimaev opened the fifth with another takedown. Strickland worked back to his feet and immediately returned to the jab that carried him through the fight.
Midway through the round, Strickland landed a stiff right hand that drew a reaction from the crowd. Chimaev attempted another takedown late, but Strickland defended and reset in the center of the cage.
The final minutes played out with Strickland pumping his lead hand and staying active enough to convince the judges.
Two judges scored the fight 48-47 in his favor, while the third saw it 48-47 for Chimaev.
Postfight: Strickland Is Quick to Make Apologies
After the decision was announced, Strickland surprised the crowd by apologizing for his pre-fight comments.
“I just want to apologize to my American fans, to my Muslim fans and my Chiristian fans,” Strickland said. “I went too f*cking hard. I’ll admit it. I respect all you guys.”
“Chechnya has great fighters. They’re savage. He’s a fcking savage. I should be a better fcking example but I try to sell these fights for you f*ckers.”
Chimaev later placed the championship belt around Strickland’s waist before exiting the octagon.
Strickland also praised Chimaev after the fight.
“That motherf*cker would not go back,” Strickland said. “I’m hitting him with everything and he just keeps coming forward. Crazy.”
Full UFC 328 results here.