Chimaev vs. Strickland Title Fight Headlines UFC 328 in Newark
LAS VEGAS — The Ultimate Fighting Championship returns to Newark with a stacked lineup as UFC 328: Chimaev vs. Strickland brings a middleweight championship showdown to the Prudential Center on Saturday, May 9.
In the main event, undefeated middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev (15-0) puts his title on the line against former champion and No. 3 ranked contender Sean Strickland (30-7) in a high-stakes grudge match. Chimaev, who has quickly risen to dominance with wins over elite names such as Dricus du Plessis, Robert Whittaker, and Kamaru Usman, looks to extend his perfect record and solidify his reign atop the division.
Strickland, known for his relentless pressure and striking volume, is aiming to reclaim the belt and become a two-time champion. With notable victories over Israel Adesanya, Nassourdine Imavov, and Anthony Hernandez, the California native enters the bout determined to hand Chimaev his first professional loss.
The co-main event features a pivotal heavyweight clash between No. 2 ranked Alexander Volkov (39-11) and No. 4 Waldo Cortes Acosta (17-2). Volkov, a seasoned veteran with 16 years of experience, looks to build on his recent win over Jailton Almeida and maintain his position near the top of the division. Meanwhile, Cortes Acosta — fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona — rides momentum from three consecutive knockout victories and aims to secure a statement win that could propel him into title contention.
Also featured on the main card, No. 6 ranked welterweight Sean Brady (18-2) faces No. 9 Joaquin Buckley (21-7) in a matchup with major divisional implications.
Additional bouts add further depth to the card. Former light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz meets Bogdan Guskov in a rematch, while lightweight veterans King Green and Jeremy Stephens square off. Rising middleweights Ateba Gautier and Ozzy Diaz will also look to make their mark.
UFC 328 marks the promotion’s 12th visit to Prudential Center, a venue that has hosted numerous memorable events since 2007. The arena’s gate record remains held by UFC 302 in 2024, headlined by Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier.
The event will stream live on Paramount+, with early prelims beginning at 5 p.m. ET, followed by prelims at 7 p.m. ET, and the main card kicking off at 9 p.m. ET.
Tickets for UFC 328 are available via Ticketmaster, with presale opportunities offered to UFC Fight Club members and newsletter subscribers. VIP experience packages are also available, offering premium seating, hospitality, and exclusive fan experiences.
All bouts are subject to change.
