Khamzat Chimaev is set to defend his middleweight title against Sean Strickland at UFC 328, which takes place at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
Newark has become a regular stop for the UFC, hosting events for the last three years. The city has hosted 11 UFC events in total, going back to UFC 78.
Chimaev’s First Title Defence
Chimaev, the undefeated champion, returns to action for the first time since claiming the title last August. He won the title at UFC 319 with a dominant showing against Dricus Du Plessis.
Chimaev has remained unbeaten while facing stiffer challenges. He has risen to the occasion in his last two outings.
Strickland’s Path to the Title Shot
Strickland earned his title shot with a brilliant performance against Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez in February. He secured a third-round stoppage win.
The 35-year-old Strickland has lost each of his last two championship bouts since shocking Israel Adesanya and claiming the title at UFC 293. He will need a similar performance to his win against Hernandez if he aims to become a two-time champion.
How Strickland Can Win
Everything about this fight hinges on Strickland’s ability to effectively pressure the champion and successfully defend takedowns. His consistent forward movement and steady output feels like one possible way to contend with Chimaev’s aggressive grappling offense.
Du Plessis barely made him work, and the fight turned lopsided in a hurry. If Strickland can’t find a way to get Chimaev moving backwards and land with impact, he could very well suffer the same fate as his South African nemesis.
Van vs Taira Co-Main Event
Joshua Van defends the flyweight title against Japanese contender Tatsuro Taira in the co-main event. Originally scheduled for UFC 327 in Miami, the fight was moved to Newark.
Van capped off an incredible 2025 campaign by winning the title from Alexandre Pant.
UFC Returns to Newark
- Main Event: Khamzat Chimaev vs Sean Strickland
- Co-Main Event: Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira
- Location: Prudential Center —Newark, New Jersey
UFC 328 promises to be one of the best fight cards of the year from top to bottom.