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MMA·PREVIEW·May 8, 2026 09:23 PM ET

Wonderboy predicts Masvidal-Askren-style finish in Chimaev vs. Strickland clash

Thompson sees a flying-knee trap brewing at UFC 328.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated May 91 min read
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via arielhelwani

What happened: Stephen 'Wonderboy' Thompson told Ariel Helwani's panel that Khamzat Chimaev versus Sean Strickland could mirror Jorge Masvidal's five-second knockout of Ben Askren. Thompson predicted Chimaev would fake a high-five, throw a single punch, and shoot for a takedown, only to walk into something Strickland has prepared. The remarks aired on Helwani's Friday show ahead of Saturday's main event.

Why it matters: The pick lands a day before UFC 328, where Chimaev's grappling pressure meets Strickland's pressure-style boxing in a stylistic puzzle the division has been waiting to see. A Masvidal-Askren comparison frames the fight as a trap-versus-counter scenario rather than a straight grappler-striker matchup. Thompson's read carries weight as a veteran welterweight striker who has trained against high-level wrestlers.

What to watch: UFC 328 headlines Saturday, May 9 at 9 p.m. ET on Paramount+, with Chimaev-Strickland as the marquee bout. Watch the opening exchange for the high-five feint Thompson flagged.

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