At UFC 238 in Newark, New Jersey, Sean Strickland (31-7) stunned the MMA world by dethroning the previously unbeaten Khamzat Chimaev (17-1) in a tightly contested split decision. Judges scored the fight 48-47 in favor of Strickland, marking his second reign as UFC middleweight champion. Strickland's first title win came from an upset over Israel Adesanya in September 2023, but he lost the title in his first defense against Dricus Du Plessis in January 2024. The fight's buildup was marked by animosity, with Strickland labeling Chimaev a 'coward' and a 'dog,' leading to heightened security measures during the event. Despite the pre-fight tensions, both fighters showed mutual respect after the bout, with Chimaev even draping the championship belt around Strickland's shoulders. Strickland acknowledged the intensity of the fight, stating, 'He may have broke my nose,' and expressed gratitude to his diverse fanbase. Statistically, Strickland outperformed Chimaev in total strikes, but many of Chimaev's punches appeared more impactful, especially in the early rounds.