Strickland's coach comments on the risk of a feud before the fight against Chimaev at UFC 328.

Sean Strickland is one of the most controversial fighters in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC Brazil

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The atmosphere behind the scenes UFC 328 Things remain heated on the eve of the main fight between Sean Strickland e Khamzat Shimaev. In the face of constant provocations between rivals, the American's coach, Eric Nicksick, broke his silence on the possibility of a brawl even before the fight this Saturday (9), in New Jersey (USA). Despite the growing tension, the coach shows confidence that common sense will prevail until they enter the octagon.

In an interview with the website 'MMA Fighting', Nicksick downplayed the possibility of a physical confrontation outside of the official fight and emphasized that both fighters have a lot to lose if they cross the line before the event. The coach stressed that the focus should remain on the middleweight title fight (up to 83,9 kg), avoiding any situation that could compromise the athletes.

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“I mean, they’re not going to make money doing it that way. You guys have a fight scheduled, you’re professional fighters, so go out there and make your money. I hope it all stays just a rivalry. I hope they fight, that the best one wins, and who knows, maybe eventually they can all train together again. That’s my vision,” said Eric Nicksick.

In addition to commenting on the tense atmosphere, Nicksick also highlighted the magnitude of the challenge that Sean Strickland He will face a challenge. According to the coach, defeating an undefeated and dominant athlete like Khamzat Shimaev This would represent a huge milestone in the former champion's career.

"I think it would be huge, especially because it's Khamzat and because he's an undefeated fighter who, in my opinion, nobody has really been able to truly challenge to this day."

So, for us to get in there and beat a guy his size would be huge for everyone, especially for Sean. We know our guy has the capabilities and qualities needed to do it,” Nicksick concluded.

Full UFC 328 Card

Promotional poster of UFC 328Chimaev vs. Strickland. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Khamzat Shimaev puts the middleweight belt on the line in the main event of UFC 328, making his first title defense in the organization. On the other side, Sean Strickland He attempts to reclaim his championship title in a duel marked by sporting importance and a rivalry built over the years, since their time training together at Xtreme Couture. Check out the event's fight card below (subject to change).

MAIN CARD (22pm Brasília time)

Average weight (up to 83,9 kg): Khamzat Shimaev x Sean Strickland – fight for the belt

Flyweight (up to 57 kg): Joshua Van x Tatsuro Taira – fight for the belt

Heavy weight (up to 120,2 kg): Alexander Volkov x Waldo Cortes Acosta

Welterweight (up to 77,1 kg): Sean brady x Joaquin buckley

Light weight (up to 70,3 kg): Bobby Green x Jeremy Stephens

PRELIMINARY CARD (18pm Brasília time)

Middleweight (up to 83,9 kg): Ateba Gautier x Ozzy Diaz

Welterweight (up to 77,1 kg): Joel alvarez x Yaroslav Amosov

Light weight (up to 70,3 kg): Grant dawson x Mateusz Rebecki

Light weight (up to 70,3 kg): Jim Miller x Jared gordon

Average weight (up to 83,9 kg): Roman Kopylov x Marcus Tullius Learn

Featherweight (up to 65,8 kg): pat sabatini x William Gomis

Average weight (up to 83,9 kg): Baisangur Susurkaev x Djorden Santos

Flyweight (up to 57 kg): Clayton Carpenter x Jose Ochoa