Strickland Reclaims Middleweight Title with Upset Decision Over Chimaev

Strickland upsets Chimaev to reclaim middleweight title.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated May 101 min read

Photo via @SportsCenter on X

What happened: Sean Strickland defeated Khamzat Chimaev via split decision at UFC 328 on Saturday night in Newark. Despite absorbing nine takedowns, Strickland's superior striking volume and conditioning allowed him to outpoint the previously unbeaten favorite in the championship rounds.

Why it matters: The victory marks a stunning return to the top for Sean Strickland, who entered as a massive underdog. It also shatters the aura of invincibility surrounding Chimaev, whose professional record falls to 15-1 after his first failed title bid.

By the numbers: Result: Split Decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47). Sig. Strikes: Strickland 123, Chimaev 98. Takedowns: Chimaev 9, Strickland 0.

What to watch: Strickland is expected to target a rematch with Dricus du Plessis for his first title defense later this year.

Sources

@SportsCenter 2026-05-10T12:51:02.784450+00:00

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