Khamzat Chimaev Next Fight: 4 Ideas After His UFC 328 Loss, Including Paulo Costa
In the main event of UFC 328, Khamzat Chimaev made his first defense of the UFC middleweight title against Sean […]
John Jones-Imagn Images In the main event of UFC 328, Khamzat Chimaev made his first defense of the UFC middleweight title against Sean Strickland . The defending champion got off to a fast start, with an immediate takedown in the first round. He showcased his elite level of grappling as Strickland struggled to get back on his feet for most of the round.
However, Chimaev (15-1) couldn’t follow up in the second round after the challenger defended several takedown attempts. In a standup battle, Chimaev and Strickland (31-7) slugged it out with back-and-forth exchanges. The champ had his moments, but was also tagged with jabs and straight right hands.
After a close and competitive contest, Strickland was awarded a split decision win to become the new UFC middleweight champion. The native of the Chechen Republic, Russia, will likely eye a move up to light heavyweight. We consider potential opponents he may take on upon his return to the Octagon.
Azamat Murzakanov Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images “The Professional” was previously on a tear at light heavyweight. Since his UFC debut in 2022, Azamat Murzakanov has won six consecutive fights, with five coming by way of stoppage. However, he hit an obstacle after a TKO loss to Paulo Costa in April.