The champion's word! Poatan explains the plan for Strickland to beat Chimaev at UFC 328; understand it.

Alex Poatan was Strickland's corner in the main event of UFC 312 . Photo: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Determined to become the first fighter to defeat Khamzat Chimaev and regain the middleweight belt (up to 83,9 kg) in the main event of UFC 328 , Sean Strickland had some very special support during his preparation for the fight. One of the most popular and successful names today, Alex Poatan dedicated some training sessions to assist his former opponent and, incidentally, share his opinions regarding the duel next Saturday (9). The meeting was recorded in the latest edition of Countdown, published by the official Ultimate channel last Sunday (3).

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For the former middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) and light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) champion, it is crucial that the American sticks to the basics of his style to frustrate the Chechen's strategy. Known for his high volume of strikes and excellent physical conditioning, Strickland usually exhausts his opponents before defeating them in the final rounds.

“Before our fight, I could see the transformation in his face in the octagon. He’s a warrior. We trained for the first time after our fight, and I learned a lot from him. He’s a very experienced guy. I’m definitely rooting for Sean Strickland . Everyone knows that. He needs to maintain his posture, be careful with takedowns, and use his jab and front punch well. I’m very excited for this fight, motivated, and I hope he comes out with the victory,” declared the Brazilian.

👀💥 Alex Pereira says Sean Strickland needs to use more jabs and teeps against Khamzat:

"Everyone knows I am rooting for Strickland. He's got to stay composed, keep pressing forward, stay alert, watch for take downs, and use his jab and front kicks."

🎥 @ufc pic.twitter.com/pKb2lZiwL4

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 4, 2026

In addition to Poatan, Strickland has also trained with Chimaev.

Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev will face each other at UFC 328. Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage.

Before their clash, the two main event fighters of UFC 328 had already shared training sessions when the Chechen trained at Extreme Couture, the gym where Strickland still trains today. Although they got along well at first, they quickly began to disagree on each other's attitudes. Over time, they became true rivals. More recently, the American even stated that he would shoot his rival in a possible street fight.

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