Sean Strickland Shocks UFC, Dethrones Khamzat Chimaev to Reclaim Middleweight Title

American survives difficult start, neutralizes Chimaev’s wrestling, and secures split-decision victory in UFC 328 main event

Sean Strickland regained the UFC middleweight title after defeating Khamzat Chimaev by split decision — 48-47, 47-48, 48-47 — in the main event of UFC 328 in Newark, New Jersey.

The fight began in strong fashion for Chimaev, who immediately showed why he entered as the favorite. “Borz” managed to take Strickland down several times in the opening round and came close to finishing the fight, but the American displayed impressive ground defense and survived the early pressure.

In the second round, Strickland began to find his rhythm. The former champion not only prevented Chimaev from establishing complete dominance, but even managed to reverse position and control the champion on the ground for nearly three minutes.

After the midway point, the pace shifted primarily to the striking exchanges, where Strickland gradually started taking over. With his trademark jab, constant pressure, and accurate straight punches, he accumulated crucial points in the eyes of the judges.

Although Chimaev recorded nine successful takedowns, his lack of sustained control and inability to finish his opponent ultimately tilted the fight in the American’s favor.

With the victory, Strickland improved his professional record to 31 wins and 7 losses, reclaiming the throne in the middleweight division. For Khamzat Chimaev, it marked the first defeat of his professional career after entering the bout with a perfect 15-0 record.