UFC 328 will take place May 9, 2026 [1], at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey [2].
The event marks a critical juncture for the middleweight division as champion Khamzat Chimaev seeks to maintain his undefeated streak against a former champion. The card also features a historic flyweight matchup between two Asian-born fighters, Joshua Van and Tatsuro Taira.
Chimaev enters the bout with a perfect professional MMA record of 15-0 [3] and an undefeated 9-0 run within the UFC [4]. His opponent, Sean Strickland, brings a veteran presence to the fight with a professional record of 30-7 [5] and a UFC record of 17-7 [6].
Promotion for the event has intensified with the release of a "Countdown" preview episode. This episode highlights the tactical preparations for the middleweight title fight and the stakes involved for the flyweight contest between Van and Taira.
The Prudential Center serves as the host venue for the gathering [2]. This location will witness whether Chimaev can overcome the experience of Strickland to solidify his reign as the middleweight champion.
Officials said the Van and Taira fight is a primary draw for the event. This matchup is intended to showcase the growing international reach of the flyweight division through its two Asian-born competitors.
“Khamzat Chimaev enters the bout with a perfect professional MMA record of 15-0.”
The matchup between Chimaev and Strickland pits an undefeated rising force against a seasoned former champion, testing whether Chimaev's dominance can withstand a veteran's durability. Simultaneously, the inclusion of Van and Taira reflects the UFC's strategic effort to expand its market presence in Asia by highlighting regional talent on a major US card.
