Commentator points to the path to Strickland's victory over Chimaev at UFC 328.

Sean Strickland Promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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Sean Strickland may surprise Khamzat Shimaev. On the eve of UFC 328, scheduled for this Saturday (9), in New Jersey (USA), Joe Rogan analyzed the middleweight title fight (up to 83,9 kg) and indicated that the former champion’s “phenomenal cardio” is one of his allies in the battle against the Russian.

During an appearance on the podcast 'The Joe Rogan Experience', the UFC commentator highlighted Strickland's technical and physical attributes that could even the score in a fight. According to Rogan, his experience in long fights, combined with his high level of stamina and the difficulty the American imposes on his opponents in striking exchanges, are factors that keep him competitive even against a dominant opponent like Chimaev.

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“Strickland is one of the best fighters on the planet, just like Khamzat. But Strickland is also a legitimate world champion. He’s used to five-round fights. He has phenomenal cardio. He’s one of the hardest guys to hit in the sport,” said Rogan.

The commentator drew attention to an aspect that, according to him, is often underestimated in Strickland's game: defensive grappling. Known for his constant pressure on his feet, the former champion also possesses, according to the analyst, one of the best takedown defenses in the division, precisely one of Chimaev's main weapons.

"Absolutely, he has a chance. His grappling is underrated. Listen to what I'm saying as an expert, supposedly: he has one of the best takedown defenses in the game. His grappling is underrated. Strickland has a real chance," he concluded.

Strickland vs. Chimaev, a rivalry that goes beyond the octagon.

The fight, which marks the Russian's first title defense, carries an extra ingredient: the rivalry between the athletes, which began during their training days at Xtreme Couture. The relationship deteriorated over time, and since then, they have exchanged public criticisms, becoming declared enemies.