Sean Strickland stunned Khamzat Chimaev to claim a split-decision victory and become a two-time UFC Middleweight Champion.
The American, 35, was written off by many before the fight with unbeaten Chimaev, 32, expected to dominate on the mat.
PPV: UFC 328: Chimaev v Strickland | SUN 10 MAY 11AM AEST | UFC Middleweight Champion Khamzat Chimaev will return to the octagon for the first defence of his title, where he takes on former champ Sean Strickland, in Newark. | Order Now with Main Event on Kayo Sports.
And the champion did control the opening round in keeping with how most saw the bout playing out — almost all five minutes spent on the floor.
But Strickland came roaring back in the second to enjoy some ground success of his own.
The challenger showed his boxing skills to claim the third, before Chimaev turned the tide once more in the fourth.
It ultimately came down to the final round and it was a nip and tuck five minutes — with two of the three judges seeing the contest 48-47 in Strickland’s favour.
After reclaiming the middleweight crown, an honest Strickland said: “I should be a better example. I appreciate you (fans). I love you guys. I wouldn’t be here without you.
“Christian fans, muslim fans, white fans, black fans.”
Chimaev was classy in defeat as he personally put the belt around the waist of new champion Strickland.
It brings to an end the Russian’s unbeaten record — with Chimaev having won all 15 of his previous professional MMA fights dating back to his debut in 2018.
Strickland moves to 31-7 as he returns to the summit of the UFC just 15 months after losing to Dricus du Plessis for the second time.
