Sean Strickland has an explanation for carrying a gun, even though he's one of the biggest names in MMA worldwide. The American is preparing to headline UFC 328 , scheduled for May 9th, when he faces Khamzat Chimaev for the middleweight title (up to 83,9 kg). During his training camp for the fight against his rival, the former champion has been training with Francis Ngannou , something that, according to him, helps illustrate his reason for reinforcing his own security.
In a video published by MVP, Strickland recounted that the justification arose precisely from a conversation with the Cameroonian fighter. On that occasion, the fighter stated that he responded to Ngannou's question by suggesting that he observe himself, referring to his training partner's physique and knockout power.
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"Then Franci asked me once why I carry a gun. I told him to look in the mirror," said Sean Strickland.
Khamzat Chimaev trains hard to face Sean Strickland at UFC 328.
While Strickland has the advantage of enhanced defense outside the octagon, inside the octagon the American will need to be in top form to keep up with Khamzat Chimaev 's pace.
In a video posted by Adam Zubayraev, Chimaev appears in a sparring session with Brendan Allen , currently ranked fourth in the division. Despite their proximity in the division, the post-training footage shows the American visibly exhausted after the activity.
Khamzat Chimaev sparring with Brendan Allen ahead of the Sean Strickland fight 👏
via: @AdamZubayraev pic.twitter.com/AzU9cpcuFs
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 22, 2026
Brendan Allen after sparring with Khamzat Chimaev 😬
(Via @AdamZubayraev ) https://t.co/1D3cI650Fp pic.twitter.com/4NvefnZo9b
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 22, 2026
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