Sean Strickland has once again ascended to the pinnacle of the middleweight division, stunning the world by defeating Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 to become a two-time champion.
The fight began with an immediate display of Khamzat Chimaev’s grappling prowess. Within 20 seconds, Chimaev secured a double-leg takedown and established dominant position on Strickland’s back. While Chimaev maintained control for the remainder of the round, his offensive output was minimal.
The second round saw Chimaev attempt another takedown, but Strickland skillfully sprawled and gained top control. Once in a dominant position, Strickland landed several significant strikes before allowing Chimaev to return to his feet. Chimaev’s subsequent attempt to take the fight back to the ground proved unsuccessful, as Strickland secured top control near the fence and continued to deliver strikes until the round’s conclusion.
Entering the third round with a seemingly depleted gas tank, Chimaev opted to engage in a striking battle with Strickland. Both fighters exchanged blows, but Strickland maintained a higher volume of offense, consistently utilizing his jab. Chimaev continued to abandon his grappling game in the fourth round, which appeared to benefit Strickland, potentially aiding in his recovery. Chimaev mixed up his strikes effectively, even drawing blood from Strickland’s nose. However, Strickland’s persistent jab prompted Chimaev to finally commit to another takedown attempt. Chimaev succeeded in bringing Strickland to the mat with less than a minute remaining in the round, accumulating significant control time.
With the fight potentially tied 2-2 heading into the fifth and final round, the stakes were exceptionally high. Recognizing the situation, Chimaev initiated an early takedown, bringing Strickland to the canvas. Strickland methodically worked his way back to his feet and created separation before resuming his jab. Chimaev seemed content to trade strikes until the final minute, when he secured another takedown against ‘Tarzan.’ Strickland managed to break free with 35 seconds left on the clock but was unable to land any decisive blows in the remaining time.
The bout went to the scorecards, where Sean Strickland was declared the winner by split decision, reclaiming the UFC middleweight world championship.
Official Result: Sean Strickland def. Khamzat Chimaev via split decision (47-48, 48-47, 48-47) to win the UFC middleweight world championship.