The UFC is in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday for a solid UFC 328 card that sees two title fights on the line, with the middleweight strap up for grabs in the main event. In the main event, Khamzat Chimaev looks to defend his belt for the first time against former champion Sean Strickland. Heading into the bout, Chimaev is a -590 favorite while the American is a +390 underdog on FanDuel.
Ahead of the bout at UFC 328, BJPENN.com reached out to several pro fighters to get their predictions for the middleweight title fight. To no surprise, the pros are backing the odds as they expect Khamzat Chimaev to dominate Sean Strickland to defend his title.
BJPENN.com Fighter Picks Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Stickland:
Modestas Bukauskas, UFC light heavyweight: I don’t think anyone beats Chimaev at 185lbs, especially Strickland. I think Chimaev will have his way on the feet, and with wrestling, the bigger question is, will he get the finish? I think he can, but I think he dominates Strickland
Adrian Yanez, UFC bantamweight: That is going to be a good one, but I have to go with Khamzat Chimaev. He’s so dominant, and I don’t think Strickland will be able to defend his takedowns.
Davey Grant, UFC bantamweight: I have to go with Khamzat. Sean does have some sneaky wrestling defense, and he has shown he can beat top guys and pull off upsets. But Chimaev seems like a different beast.
Eryk Anders, UFC middleweight: I think Chimaev’s wrestling is the difference. He’s so strong, and even if he doesn’t get the first takedown, he will just keep on trying. I don’t think Strickland will be able to deal with that wrestling for five rounds.
Vince Morales, UFC bantamweight: Chimaev, I think he can finish Sean; he can outwrestle Strickland.
John Castaneda, UFC bantamweight: Chimaev. I’ve counted him out before, and I think he can just outwrestle and outgrapple Strickland, and even if he doesn’t get the finish, it will be a dominant win.
Colby Thicknesse, UFC bantamweight: I want Strickland to win, but I think Chimaev is going to get it done.
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Fighters picking Khamzat Chimaev: Modestas Bukauskas, Adrian Yanez, Davey Grany, Eryk Anders, Vince Morales, John Castaneda, Colby Thicknesse
Fighters picking Sean Strickland: None
Who do you think will win the UFC 328 main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland at UFC 328? Sound off in the comment section, PENN Nation!