KABUL (Pajhwok): Sean Strickland has reclaimed the UFC middleweight championship after defeating Khamzat Chimaev via split decision in the main event of UFC 328 in Newark, New Jersey.
According to CBS Sports, Chimaev started aggressively, securing early takedowns and controlling much of the opening round. However, Strickland defended well, surviving difficult positions and avoiding submission attempts.
Strickland recovered in the second round, stuffing takedowns and briefly gaining top control before returning to striking distance.
The third round was largely contested on the feet, where Strickland landed cleaner shots, although Chimaev had notable moments, including opening a cut on Strickland.
Chimaev regained momentum in the fourth round with effective striking and another late takedown, while the fifth round saw continued grappling exchanges with neither fighter maintaining clear control.
The bout went to the judges, who scored it 48-47, 47-48, 48-47 in favor of Strickland, who narrowly secured the title for a second time in his career.
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