TLDR
- Sean Strickland has begun attacking UFC champion Khamzat Chimaev on social media ahead of their May 9 title fight at UFC 328
- Strickland made controversial remarks about Chimaev’s ties to Chechen dictator Ramzan Kadyrov, calling him a terrorist
- The former champion received the title shot despite being ranked below Nassourdine Imavov
- Strickland defeated Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston in February 2026 to earn his title opportunity
- The fighters will not compete at the UFC’s White House event, which has been reduced to just two title fights
Sources: National Today | Bloody Elbow
Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has launched a series of controversial attacks against current champion Khamzat Chimaev just days after their title fight was announced. The two fighters are scheduled to meet at UFC 328 on May 9, 2026.
Strickland took to social media to target Chimaev with provocative statements about the champion’s ties to Chechen dictator Ramzan Kadyrov. The challenger posted on Facebook that the fighters would not be competing at the White House, adding that “they don’t like terrorists there.”
The attacks come despite Strickland being ranked below another middleweight contender, Nassourdine Imavov. Strickland received the title shot over the higher-ranked fighter, a decision that has raised questions among fans and analysts.
Strickland held the middleweight championship for a brief period in 2023 before losing the belt to Dricus du Plessis. He is now attempting to reclaim the title by defeating the dominant Chimaev.
Sean Strickland says his fight against Khamzat Chimaev isn’t happening at the White House because “they don’t like terrorists in there” 😬
(via IG / briantheinterviewer) pic.twitter.com/lIu3tDiWGa
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 13, 2026
Recent Win Earns Title Shot
The former champion most recently defeated Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston in February 2026. That victory apparently convinced UFC officials to grant him the title opportunity over Imavov.
Strickland has also referenced past incidents where his microphone was cut off during press conferences. In another Facebook post, he wrote “Don’t be scared this time Paramount+…don’t be scared,” suggesting the promotion has tried to silence him in the past.
The challenger appears to be setting the tone early for what could be a heated promotional campaign leading up to the May fight. His comments about Chimaev’s connections to Kadyrov represent some of his most pointed attacks yet.
White House Event Falls Short
The UFC 328 title fight comes as the organization prepares for its first event at the White House. The event was originally promised to feature eight or nine title fights but has fallen short with just two championship bouts.
Strickland’s comments suggest he and Chimaev will not be part of the White House event. Instead, their bout will take place at UFC 328 on May 9.
Chimaev has not yet publicly responded to Strickland’s attacks. The champion has been known for his own outspoken personality but has remained quiet so far.
The buildup to UFC 328 is expected to feature more verbal exchanges between the two fighters. Strickland is known for his willingness to say controversial things, while Chimaev has shown he can match intensity with opponents.
Strickland’s strategy appears focused on getting under Chimaev’s skin before they enter the octagon. Whether these tactics will prove effective remains to be seen when the two fighters meet in May.
