Chael Sonnen Calls Sean Strickland 'Last Hope' Against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328

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Chael Sonnen Calls Sean Strickland 'Last Hope' Against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated May 5, 2026 9:14 PM ET

LAS VEGAS — Chael Sonnen isn’t mincing words. Ahead of UFC 328, Sonnen believes Sean Strickland represents the final barrier to a potential long reign by Khamzat Chimaev. “Strickland is the last hope,” Sonnen said on The Ariel Helwani Show.

Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) enters the main event Saturday night at Prudential Center in Newark as a heavy favorite and one of the most dominant forces in the sport.

Sonnen sees a bigger narrative unfolding. “He is the last line of defense… If Chimaev penetrates Sean Strickland, you better get used to the Chimaev era,” Sonnen said.

The former title challenger framed the matchup as more than just a fight but a turning point for the division.

pic.twitter.com/riB2ItsGiJ

Chael Sonnen calling Sean Strickland the last hope to stop the Khamzat Chimaev era (I mean it already started if we are honest).

Image | Source: Dice City Sports
“a different level of toughness” Chael Sonnen speaking on Khamzat Chimaev and other fighters from The Caucasuses.
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— Nofanboymma (@nofanboymma) May 5, 2026

The Rise of a New Era

Sonnen pointed to a broader trend of dominance from fighters rooted in wrestling-heavy systems, referencing champions like:

Khabib Nurmagomedov
Islam Makhachev
Khamzat Chimaev

According to Sonnen, that style built on relentless grappling and physical toughness has reshaped the competitive landscape.

Strickland’s Underdog Opportunity

Despite entering as the underdog, Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) brings a unique challenge:

High-volume striking
Durable chin
Pressure-based style

While not known for elite grappling, Strickland’s ability to dictate pace and stay composed could test Chimaev in ways others haven’t. Sonnen’s comments highlight the stakes beyond the Octagon.

This isn’t just about a title defense it’s about whether the division becomes defined by one dominant force. Sean Strickland may be the underdog. But according to Chael Sonnen, he’s also the last stand.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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