Title Clash Set for May 9th

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) CEO Dana White announced today that Middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev will make his first title defense against former champion Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on Saturday, May 9, 2026, inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

The matchup pits two fighters with a history of animosity against each other, promising a highly anticipated showdown inside the Octagon.

Chimaev’s Dominant Reign

Chimaev (15-0) secured the Middleweight title last year with a dominant performance over Dricus du Plessis. He has remained undefeated in his UFC career, winning all nine of his Octagon appearances – six by finish.

His impressive run includes a submission victory over former champion Robert Whittaker, as well as a win over former Welterweight king Kamaru Usman.

Strickland’s Road Back to the Title

Strickland (30-7) earned another title opportunity with a knockout victory over Anthony Hernandez, ending the grappler’s eight-fight win streak. The win followed a year away from competition, partially due to a six-month suspension stemming from an altercation with a regional fighter.

The contender holds a 2-2 record in his last four fights, with both losses coming in title bouts against du Plessis. He also boasts notable victories over Israel Adesanya, Nassourdine Imavov, and Paulo Costa – the latter of which took place in Newark.

UFC 328: Current Matchups

• Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland – For the UFC Middleweight Title
• Belal Muhammad vs. Gabriel Bonfim
• Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Song Yadong
• Arnold Allen vs. Melquizael Costa

More fights are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.