What happened: Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev by split decision in the UFC 328 main event on May 9 in Newark, New Jersey, becoming UFC middleweight champion again. Two judges scored it 48-47 for Strickland, while the third had it 48-47 for Chimaev. Chimaev controlled early with takedowns, but Strickland rallied behind his jab and late-round striking volume.
Why it matters: This is a major title change and one of the bigger recent UFC upsets, with Chimaev entering as a heavy. The result ends Chimaev's brief reign at 185 and gives Strickland another championship run, resetting the middleweight contender queue. It also creates immediate rematch and divisional-movement questions after post-fight reporting indicated Chimaev may leave middleweight.
By the numbers: Result: Sean Strickland def. Khamzat Chimaev by split decision at UFC 328. Judges: 48-47, 48-47 for Strickland; 48-47 for Chimaev. Venue/date: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey, May 9, 2026.
What to watch: Watch for the UFC's next move at middleweight, including whether Strickland gets a first defense against a fresh challenger or an immediate rematch with Chimaev. Chimaev also hinted at a quick return, while Dana White said he may move out of the division after a difficult weight cut.