Sean Strickland upset Khamzat Chimaev in a contentious and hard-fought UFC 328 main event, reclaiming the middleweight title in a split decision. The fight, which took place at the Prudential Center in Newark, saw Strickland (31-7) defeat the previously unbeaten Chimaev (17-1) as a +400 underdog, according to CBS Sports.

Controversy and Respect in the Octagon

The fight was preceded by significant tension. Strickland referred to Chimaev as a “coward” and a “dog” during the buildup, citing a 2022 incident in which he accused Chimaev of “bullying” smaller fighters at his Las Vegas gym. The animosity culminated in a physical altercation during a promotional stare down, prompting the UFC to increase security measures, including separate hotels for the fighters and a visible police presence, as reported by ESPN.

Despite the pre-fight hostility, the two showed mutual respect inside the cage. Chimaev even helped Strickland wrap the title belt around his waist after the fight. Strickland later apologized for his aggressive rhetoric, saying, “I went too hard. I respect all you guys [from Chechnya]. He’s a f—ing savage. I try to sell these fights for you f—ers. I appreciate you,” according to ESPN.

Weight Controversy and Conspiracy Theories

The fight was not without controversy. Chimaev narrowly made the 185-pound limit at Friday’s official weigh-in, with some observers noting that the manual scale used appeared to be moving as he came in at exactly 185 pounds. Strickland accused Chimaev of “cheating” during ceremonial weigh-ins, which emboldened online critics. However, UFC CEO Dana White defended the process, stating that the New Jersey State Athletic Commission, known for its strict enforcement, oversaw the weigh-ins. He added that any further questions should be directed to the commission, per Bloody Elbow.

White also dismissed conspiracy theories about Chimaev’s weight, comparing it to a past incident where fighter Jeremy Stephens was heavily punished for missing weight by four pounds. “The internet is f—ing stupid,” he said, urging fans to contact the commission directly for details.

Post-Fight Plans and Future Fights

Chimaev appeared frustrated after the fight, removing his gloves and throwing them into the crowd. He later told Dana White that this would be his final fight at 185 pounds and that he plans to move up to the 205-pound light heavyweight division for his next bout, according to ESPN.

Meanwhile, Strickland, who previously held the middleweight title after defeating Israel Adesanya in September 2023, is now a two-time champion. His victory over Chimaev marks a return to the top of the division after losing the belt to Dricus du Plessis in 2024, as noted by CBS Sports.

On the co-main card, Joshua Van defended his UFC flyweight title with a TKO win over Tatsuro Taira in the fifth round. The fight saw Van overcome an early takedown advantage by Taira before delivering a decisive knockdown in the final round. The win sets up a potential rematch with former champion Alexandre Pantoja later this year, according to UFC.com (Japan and Korea).