UFC 328 Fallout: Arman Tsarukyan Challenges Dana White’s Chimaev Narrative

In the wake of UFC 328 (May 9, 2026), the middleweight division is in a state of shock—and political tension. After Sean Strickland reclaimed the Middleweight Championship via a grueling split decision (48-47, 47-48, 48-47), UFC CEO Dana White sparked controversy by suggesting that Khamzat Chimaev was “off” due to a difficult weight cut. However, that claim was immediately countered by Arman Tsarukyan, who worked in Chimaev’s corner for the fight.

The Dana White Defense

During the post-fight press conference, Dana White seemed intent on protecting the marketability of Chimaev, who entered the night as the undefeated champion.

• The “Bad Night” Claim: White attributed Chimaev’s visible fatigue in rounds 2 through 5 to health issues and a “brutal” weight cut, rather than Strickland’s defensive wrestling and boxing volume.

• The Health Narrative: Rumors had circulated during fight week that Chimaev had to cut nearly 46 pounds in the final 48 hours, a narrative White leaned into to explain why “Borz” couldn’t maintain his typical 100-mph pace.

Tsarukyan’s Counter: “Give Credit Where It’s Due”

At zyproo.online, we’ve analyzed the friction between White and Tsarukyan, who has become an outspoken voice for meritocracy in the UFC. Tsarukyan, who was intimately involved in Chimaev’s camp, offered a blunt rebuttal to the boss’s excuses:

1. The Gas Tank Issue: Tsarukyan argued that while the weight cut was hard, Chimaev’s exhaustion was the result of Strickland’s relentless “teep” kicks to the body and constant pressure.

2. Middleweight Reality: Tsarukyan noted that Chimaev’s style—bursting for early finishes—doesn’t translate as easily against elite 185-pounders who can survive the first five minutes.

3. Favoritism: Tsarukyan hinted that the UFC is trying to “manufacture” a comeback for Chimaev while ignoring that Strickland simply executed a superior tactical game plan.

UFC 328 Results & Stats

The main event proved that Strickland’s “Philly Shell” defense is the ultimate kryptonite for aggressive wrestlers.

What’s Next for the Middleweight Division?

The rivalry between Chimaev and Strickland is far from over. Despite the loss, Chimaev has already called out Alex Pereira for a “Super Fight” at Light Heavyweight, potentially looking to escape the 185-pound cut entirely. Meanwhile, Strickland is eyeing a defense against Israel Adesanya or Nassourdine Imavov in late 2026.

Tsarukyan’s willingness to go against Dana White’s narrative adds a new layer to his own standing in the company, especially as he remains the #1 contender at Lightweight and is expected to face Islam Makhachev in a rescheduled bout later this year.