UFC 328: Double Title Thrills Return to Newark!

The Octagon is returning to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, for a night that promises fireworks from top to bottom. Newark has a rich history with the UFC, hosting legendary bouts dating back to UFC 78. This time, the stakes are higher than ever as UFC 328 features a rare and electrifying double-title fight bill.

Whether you are a die-hard MMA fan or a casual viewer, this card is stacked with championship gold, grudge matches, and rising prospects. Here is everything you need to know about the fight week.

The Main Event: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland

In the headliner, the undefeated powerhouse Khamzat Chimaev puts his Middleweight strap on the line for the first time. After a dominant victory at UFC 319, where he completely shut down Dricus Du Plessis, Chimaev looks to prove that his wrestling dominance is an unsolvable puzzle.

Standing in his way is the former champion, Sean Strickland. Coming off a brutal third-round stoppage of Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez, Strickland is back in the title hunt. To win, Strickland must utilize his trademark forward pressure and elite takedown defense to keep the fight standing.

• The Key Factor: Can Strickland maintain his rhythm and landing impact, or will Chimaev’s aggressive grappling end the night early?

Co-Main Event: Joshua Van vs. Tatsuro Taira

The Flyweight division takes center stage as Joshua Van defends his title against the dangerous Japanese contender Tatsuro Taira. Van has been an absolute force in 2025, capturing the gold from Alexandre Pantoja in a stunning fashion.

Taira, however, is no stranger to big wins, having previously stopped Brandon Moreno. While this may look like a “striker vs. grappler” matchup on paper, both fighters have evolved into well-rounded threats. This fight will likely be decided by who can dictate the pace and endure the grueling nature of the 125-pound division.

Main Card Breakdown: Heavyweight Clashes and Welterweight Wars

The supporting cast for UFC 328 is just as intriguing as the title fights. Here are the matchups to watch:

Alexander Volkov vs. Waldo Cortes Acosta

A heavyweight battle with massive implications. Alexander Volkov is looking to erase the doubt from recent split decisions, while Waldo Cortes Acosta enters the cage with momentum after a stoppage win over Derrick Lewis. A win here puts either man in the conversation for a title shot.

Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley

Two welterweights fighting for redemption. Sean Brady is looking to bounce back from a loss to Michael Morales, while Joaquin Buckley aims to regain his winning streak after a tough outing against Kamaru Usman.

King Green vs. Jeremy Stephens

A clash of veterans. King Green has looked sharp in his recent outings, but Jeremy Stephens possesses the kind of one-punch knockout power that can change a fight in a split second.

UFC 328 Full Fight Card & Logistics

Preliminary Card Highlights

• Ateba Gautier vs. Ozzy Diaz: A test of youth versus experience in the Middleweight division.
• Joel Alvarez vs. Yaroslav Amosov: Two high-level welterweights fighting to break into the Top 15.
• Jim Miller vs. Jared Gordon: A local “New Jersey vs. New York” rivalry featuring the legendary Jim Miller.
• Pat Sabatini vs. William Gomis: A high-stakes encounter between a winning streak and a dangerous newcomer.

For more official updates, fight stats, and ticket information, visit the Official UFC Website.