Strickland's coach reveals 'fear' and extra motivation for the fight against Chimaev at UFC 328.

Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev face off at UFC 328. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/Montage SUPER LUTAS

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The clash between Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev , scheduled for UFC 328 , may have much more at stake than just the middleweight title (up to 83,9 kg). At least that's what Eric Nicksick, the American's coach, believes. Since 'The Wolf' won the belt, the two have been exchanging public provocations involving criticism of their performances, as well as attacks related to religion and nationality, ingredients that, in the coach's view, add even more excitement to the duel.

In an interview with journalist Ariel Helwani, Nicksick assessed that, although the belt is of great importance, the confrontation has taken on a different atmosphere due to the growing rivalry between the fighters. The coach highlighted that there is a strong sense of competitiveness between them and expressed concern that the fight might end up being driven more by emotion than strategy. In the coach's view, the duel involves a level of pride and prestige that, in some aspects, may even surpass the value of the title itself.

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“The title is important to everyone, but this fight has a different atmosphere. There’s a competitiveness between the two, and I hope they don’t turn it into an emotional dispute instead of a tactical one. I feel there are more emotions involved in this than the title itself. It’s more a matter of prestige,” said Eric Nicksick.

Dana White admits fear for Chimaev vs. Strickland fight at UFC 328

In a video published on the UFC's official YouTube channel, Dan White was candid and admitted to being worried about what the fighters might do before, during, and after the highly anticipated fight. Dana's pessimistic view is understandable, given that the rivalry between Chimaev and Strickland is one of the biggest and most hostile in MMA today.

“Fun event and, obviously, the main fight is the fight everyone has been waiting for a long time. Strickland was incredible in his last performance. How much security do you think we'll need? (laughs),” said the UFC president.

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