Arman Tsarukyan has hit out at the officials after Khamzat Chimaev’s first career loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328 in Newark. The lightweight standout, who cornered Chimaev for his middleweight title defence, insisted the Chechen champion was “submitted by the judges” following a razor-tight decision that ignited fierce discussion across the MMA community.
Tsarukyan’s Corner Demands Accountability
During Dana White’s pre-fight livestream, Tsarukyan confidently predicted a first-round rear-naked choke for Chimaev. However, in a post-bout social media post, he quelled any doubt about the outcome, writing: “We got submitted by the judges.” The Armenian star’s blunt critique highlights growing frustration with perceived inconsistency in UFC scoring, especially on the big stage of UFC 328 at the Prudential Center.
Judging Debate Heats Up After UFC 328
Veteran judges Eric Colon and Sal D’Amato each scored the main event 48–47 for Strickland, while Alejandro Roberts saw it 48–47 for Chimaev. According to MMA Decisions, 64.3 percent of fan scorecards mirrored Colon and D’Amato’s verdict, yet media members were split 13–11 in Chimaev’s favour. Such figures underline the razor-thin margins in high-stakes middleweight clashes and why accusations of a ‘robbery’ continue to swirl despite a sizeable contingent siding with the new champion.
Strickland Eyes Next Challenger
With Sean Strickland crowned two-time middleweight titleholder, talk has already turned to his next defence. ‘Tarzan’ has publicly set his sights on Nassourdine Imavov, whom he defeated in a late-notice light heavyweight bout in 2023. Meanwhile, speculation mounts over Khamzat Chimaev’s future, with reports hinting at a move back to welterweight if a trilogy’s off the table.
The fallout from UFC 328 illustrates the passionate divides in MMA scoring and sets the stage for fresh rivalries in the middleweight division.
FAQ
What was the result of Khamzat Chimaev vs Sean Strickland at UFC 328?
Sean Strickland upset Khamzat Chimaev via split decision, with two judges scoring it 48–47 in his favour and one judge in favour of Chimaev.
What did Arman Tsarukyan say about the judges?
Tsarukyan claimed his teammate was “submitted by the judges” after they ruled against Chimaev, criticising their decision on social media.
How did fans and media score the fight?
On MMA Decisions, 64.3% of fan scorecards backed Strickland. Among media members, 13 out of 24 believed Chimaev had done enough to win.
Who is Sean Strickland likely to fight next?
Strickland has expressed interest in facing top contender Nassourdine Imavov for his next middleweight title defence.