Jon Anik sides with Chimaev–Strickland tension as Dana White hits the brakes

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Security will need to be alert during fight week, with UFC 328 only a month away.

The Octagon will soon return to New Jersey for another major card, this time at the Prudential Center in Newark.

Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland headlines UFC 328, with the American former champion looking to unseat the undefeated Chechen from the middleweight throne in his very first defence.

No Khamzat Chimaev event is ever quiet, and given how outspoken Strickland is, there’s every chance things could boil over before they even step into the cage.

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Jon Anik embraces the tension between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland ahead of UFC 328

Chimaev’s history of stirring up controversy at press events is well known, and his upcoming opponent isn’t exactly new to outside-the-cage drama either.

Strickland had an altercation with Dricus du Plessis just weeks before their title bout in January 2024, a reminder that he’s no stranger to confrontation.

There’s already talk that something similar could happen ahead of the May 9 main event. The UFC seems cautious, with Dana White already cancelling their Paramount face-off over concerns it might escalate.

On MMA Junkie Radio, Anik explained why he appreciates the added drama ahead of fights like this one. He said:

“I can’t be the only one in the fight game that roots for straight chaos,” Anik said during an appearance on MMA Junkie Radio.

“Whether it’s in an 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,” he continued. “I do believe that when there is heat or friction or bad blood on a matchup, it only heightens things.”