The UFC 328 press conference descended into chaos on 7/5/2026 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, when middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev unexpectedly lunged at challenger Sean Strickland, delivering a kick during their face-off. This sudden physical confrontation caused the situation to erupt, forcing more than 10 security personnel and police to immediately intervene and separate the two fighters. Strickland was subsequently restrained and removed from the stage, later posting on social media, stating: "Exactly what I expected from a coward."

Khamzat Chimaev (left) and Sean Strickland face off during the UFC 328 press conference at Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey, United States on 7/5/2026. Photo: Zuffa LLC

From the outset, both fighters stood facing each other under close supervision, rather than being seated at the usual press conference table. However, this measure failed to prevent a prolonged and increasingly heated verbal confrontation. Strickland initiated the verbal attack by branding Chimaev as someone who "talks a lot but doesn't act", referencing his opponent's past withdrawals or interruptions from competition due to Covid-19, implying a lack of consistency and fighting spirit. The American fighter also repeatedly targeted Chimaev's background and surrounding controversies, suggesting his opponent was unqualified and frequently relied on factors outside the octagon.

In response, Chimaev retaliated with provocative remarks, asserting he would completely dominate once inside the octagon while consistently downplaying Strickland's capabilities. Tension escalated to a climax when Chimaev directly attacked Strickland's childhood trauma. Strickland had openly shared his past, growing up in a violent family environment with an addicted father. Exploiting this personal history was considered particularly sensitive, similar to how Dricus du Plessis previously used it when confronting Strickland.

Throughout the press conference, both continuously exchanged challenges and interrupted each other. Although there were no explicitly clear threats, the confrontational atmosphere increasingly spiraled out of control, prompting organizers to maximize security.

These two middleweight fighters have had a strained relationship since 2022, when they trained together in Las Vegas. Strickland accused Chimaev of disrespectful behavior and creating pressure in the gym, but Chimaev denied it, claiming his opponent fabricated the story. The conflict between the two sides escalated over time; Strickland even stated he would defend himself with a gun if Chimaev and his team attacked. Given the tense situation, UFC significantly increased security during event week, including a permanent police presence and metal detector systems at the fighters' hotel in Morristown, New Jersey. Strickland was also accommodated at a separate location to avoid contact with his opponent.

Chimaev boasts an undefeated professional MMA record of 15 wins, was a three-time Swedish national freestyle wrestling champion, and is a top star in the UFC middleweight division. Meanwhile, Strickland was a King of the Cage champion before joining the UFC, where he won the middleweight title in 2023. The match between these two fighters will take place today at Prudential Center, Newark, where Chimaev will defend his middleweight championship belt.

*Compiled by Hong Duy*