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Jon Anik rooting for 'straight chaos' between Chimaev, Strickland before UFC 328
TL;DR
Jon Anik is hoping for intense drama between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland ahead of UFC 328. The fight, set for May 9 in Newark, N.J., features real tension between the two fighters, prompting increased security measures from UFC CEO Dana White.
Key points
- Jon Anik hopes for intense drama between Chimaev and Strickland.
- The fight is set for May 9 at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.
- UFC is increasing security due to the fighters' real tension.
Mentioned in this story
Prudential CenterNewark, N.J.
Khamzat ChimaevSean StricklandUFC 328
Jon Anik hopes for a fierce fight week from Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland ahead of UFC 328.
Genuine grudge matches are becoming increasingly rare in MMA, and it appears the tension between middleweight champion Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) and ex-titleholder Strickland (30-7 MMA, 17-7 UFC) is real going into the May 9 showdown at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. (Paramount+)
UFC CEO Dana White has repeatedly stated there will be an increased security presence throughout fight week and he won't take any chances with Chimaev and Strickland getting physical before stepping into the octagon. Lead UFC play-by-play voice Anik doesn't want to see the bout jeopardized in any way, but he hopes it doesn't get to the point where any heat between champion and challenger is muted.
"I can't be the only one in the fight game that roots for straight chaos," Anik told MMA Junkie Radio. "Whether it's in arena or at a press conference. I'm not necessarily talking about Monster Energy drinks flying through the air, but I want security to have to intervene. I want friction. I do believe that when there is heat or friction or bad blood on a matchup, it only heightens things.
"I remember the first time they locked the door behind Colby Covington and Kamaru Usman and I'm thinking, 'Oh my goodness.' But I have also said about Khamzat Chimaev: He's the most electrifying force in the game. So when you shut the octagon door behind him and anyone else, oftentimes chaos ensues, whether it's quick against Robert Whittaker or a long game like he did against Gilbert Burns."
Although Strickland is a significant betting underdog to undefeated champion Chimaev, there is swelling support for him from analysts and insiders. Anik doesn't know if the American can pull it off, but his excitement is genuine to see what unfolds at UFC 328.
"Sean Strickland couldn't have done more to earn this opportunity, he couldn't have done more with the Anthony 'Fluffy' Hernandez showcase to get this fight," Anik said. "Boys, caution flammable come May 9."
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: UFC 328: Jon Anik rooting for 'straight chaos' between Chimaev, Strickland
Q&A
What is the significance of the fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland at UFC 328?
The fight is significant due to the genuine tension between Chimaev and Strickland, which is rare in MMA and adds to the anticipation of the matchup.
When is UFC 328 scheduled to take place?
UFC 328 is scheduled for May 9, 2023, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
What precautions is UFC taking for the fight week of Chimaev vs. Strickland?
UFC CEO Dana White has announced an increased security presence throughout fight week to prevent any physical altercations between Chimaev and Strickland.
