What happened: Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev via split decision to capture the UFC Middleweight Championship at UFC 328 in Newark. This marks the second time Sean Strickland has captured UFC gold as a significant betting underdog. Strickland survived a dominant first round to outwork the previously unbeaten Chimaev over the final twenty minutes.
Why it matters: Entering as a underdog, Strickland’s victory marks one of the most significant betting upsets in championship history. The win hands Chimaev the first loss of his professional career and cements Strickland as a elite spoiler in the division's title picture.
By the numbers: Method: Split Decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47). Significant Strikes: Strickland 142, Chimaev 64. Takedowns: Chimaev 4/9, Strickland 0/0. Post-fight records: Strickland (31-7), Chimaev (15-1).
What to watch: The UFC will likely consider a trilogy bout with Israel Adesanya or a matchup against the winner of Dricus Du Plessis vs. Robert Whittaker for Strickland's first defense.