Strickland Defeats Chimaev by Split Decision at UFC 328, Rematch Demanded
Sean Strickland secured a controversial split decision victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328, with Chimaev immediately demanding a rematch.
In a grueling five-round battle at UFC 328 in Newark, New Jersey, Sean Strickland emerged victorious over Khamzat Chimaev via split decision. The fight, which headlined the Paramount+ card on May 9, 2026, was ultimately decided in a pivotal fifth round that immediately sparked debate across the MMA community.
Judges Eric Colon and Sal D'Amato scored the bout in favor of Strickland, while Sue Sanidad saw it for Chimaev. The UFC uploaded the entire fifth round to YouTube shortly after the event, giving fans a closer look at the decisive final five minutes.
Chimaev, frustrated by the outcome, took to social media to demand an immediate rematch. "Let me know when you are ready," Chimaev posted, addressing Strickland directly. However, No. 2-ranked contender Nassourdine Imavov is also in line for a title shot, and former champion Dricus Du Plessis — who holds two previous victories over Strickland — is also eyeing a return to the title picture.
With the middleweight division more contested than ever, the UFC faces a challenging decision on what comes next for the strap.
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