Overview
- Strickland, who edged a split decision Saturday at UFC 328 in Newark, won 48-47 on two cards (Eric Colon, Sal D’Amato) with one judge (Sue Sanidad) scoring it 48-47 for Chimaev.
- Chimaev controlled Round 1 with takedowns and near-submissions, then faded as Strickland’s takedown defense and steady jab carried the later rounds on volume and accuracy.
- The loss is Chimaev’s first as a pro, and Dana White said the former champion told the UFC he intends to move up to 205 pounds for his next fight.
- Strickland apologized to his American, Muslim and Christian fans in the cage, and Chimaev showed respect by placing the belt around Strickland’s waist after the result.
- In the co-main event, Joshua Van stopped Tatsuro Taira with punches at 1:32 of Round 5 to retain the UFC flyweight title.