New sparring footage of Khamzat Chimaev dropping light heavyweight Khalil Rountree Jr. has circulated ahead of the UFC middleweight champion's title defense at UFC 328 on May 9 against Sean Strickland, sending MMA social media into a frenzy.
Chimaev hasn't competed since claiming the middleweight title with a dominant performance over Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 last August. His impressive striking on a fighter who competes at 205 pounds reinforces the picture of a champion operating at a dangerous level heading into the grudge match with Strickland.
Du Plessis Gives Strickland a Real Shot
Former middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, who lost the title to Chimaev and previously defeated Strickland, offered a notable assessment of the May 9 matchup. "Sean Strickland has a very good chance against Khamzat Chimaev," du Plessis said, one of the most credible Strickland endorsements heading into fight night.
UFC 328 is shaping up as one of the most anticipated events of the year. Strickland's ability to apply pressure and absorb punishment makes him a legitimate threat, and with DDP sounding the alarm, the champion will have little room for complacency.