Khamzat Chimaev believes he must do something special to change his reputation at UFC 328.
On May 9, Khamzat Chimaev will make the first defense of his middleweight title when he takes on teammate-turned rival, Sean Strickland, in the UFC 328 main event.
Ahead of their clash in Newark, New Jersey, tensions have risen to an extremely palpable level with both fighters threatening violence on each other outside of the Octagon.
But with Dana White ensuring that security will be at the maximum throughout fight week, ‘Borz’ is attempting to focus on his work inside the Octagon, not letting Strickland get into his head.
Chimaev admits he must score a finish at UFC 328 to change his reputation
‘Borz’s’ UFC 328 fight camp has been heavily documented on social media, with the Chechen looking in the best shape he has ever looked.
And with him being heavily favored to beat his longtime rival, Chimaev has admitted that he must score the finish to change his current reputation amongst fans.
Despite his sheer dominance against Dricus Du Plessis to win the title, fans were disappointed that Chimaev didn’t really come close to a finish.
“Yeah, for sure I have to finish him, otherwise people will (continue) to call me a boring fighter,” Chimaev said this past Thursday during an open workout media scrum.
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Although Strickland has remained extremely outspoken ahead of their clash, ‘Borz’ is attempting to remain calm and collected.
Chimaev is predicted to have a tougher challenge taking Strickland down than he did with Du Plessis, who he took down 12 times.
Strickland currently holds a takedown defense percentage of 76%, whereas Du Plessis’ is 34%.
“They’re all the same for me,” Chimaev said regarding all of his past opponents.
“It should be (easy to take him down), it was easy. We trained five years ago and I don’t think he’s changed, so let’s see.”
Hopefully for the UFC’s sake, it won’t be until May 9 until Chimaev and Strickland clash, as White will likely be on tenterhooks during the press conference and any subsequent face-offs.
2026-05-01 21:00:00
