UFC 328 Main Card Revealed: 5 Fights Confirmed
The UFC 328 main card has officially been revealed, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most compelling fight nights of 2026. With two high-stakes title fights, rising contenders, and veteran matchups, the event promises fireworks from top to bottom.
Scheduled for May 9, 2026, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, UFC 328 is headlined by a middleweight championship clash between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland. Meanwhile, a newly added flyweight title fight now serves as the co-main event, significantly boosting the card’s overall appeal.
UFC 328 Main Card Overview
The confirmed UFC 328 main card features a balanced mix of championship bouts and exciting contender fights. The lineup includes:
- Middleweight Title: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland
- Flyweight Title (Co-Main): Joshua Van vs. Tatsuro Taira
- Heavyweight Bout: Alexander Volkov vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta
- Welterweight Bout: Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley
- Lightweight Bout: King Green vs. Jeremy Stephens
This combination of elite-level competition and stylistic diversity makes UFC 328 one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Main Event: Chimaev vs. Strickland for Middleweight Gold
At the top of the UFC 328 main card is a blockbuster middleweight title fight between reigning champion Khamzat Chimaev and former champion Sean Strickland.
Chimaev captured the middleweight title after defeating Dricus du Plessis and now enters his first title defense with immense momentum. Known for his relentless grappling and aggressive pace, Chimaev has quickly become one of the most feared fighters in the division.
Strickland, on the other hand, is coming off an impressive knockout victory over Anthony Hernandez. His striking volume, durability, and unconventional style make him a dangerous challenger for anyone, including the champion.
This matchup represents a classic clash of styles—Chimaev’s dominant wrestling versus Strickland’s high-pressure striking. As a result, fans and analysts alike are divided on how the fight will unfold.
Co-Main Event: Flyweight Title Fight Added
One of the biggest updates to the UFC 328 main card is the addition of a flyweight title fight as the co-main event.
Champion Joshua Van will defend his belt against rising contender Tatsuro Taira. Originally scheduled for UFC 327, the fight was postponed and moved to UFC 328, giving it an even bigger stage.
Van captured the flyweight title in December and now faces his first title defense. Meanwhile, Taira enters the bout with strong momentum, including a recent win over former champion Brandon Moreno.
This fight carries major implications for the flyweight division. A win for Van would solidify his reign, while a victory for Taira could signal the arrival of a new dominant champion.
Heavyweight Clash Adds Power to the Card
The UFC 328 main card also features a heavyweight showdown between Alexander Volkov and Waldo Cortes-Acosta.
Volkov, a seasoned veteran with elite striking skills, continues to be a top contender in the division. His experience and technical precision make him a tough challenge for any opponent.
Cortes-Acosta, however, brings explosive power and rising momentum. This matchup is expected to deliver a high-impact contest, with knockout potential on both sides.
Heavyweight fights often steal the show, and this bout has all the ingredients to do just that.
Welterweight Showdown: Brady vs. Buckley
Another intriguing matchup on the UFC 328 main card is the welterweight clash between Sean Brady and Joaquin Buckley.
Brady returns to action looking to reassert himself as a contender in the division. Known for his grappling and control, he aims to neutralize Buckley’s explosive striking.
Buckley, famous for his highlight-reel knockouts, represents a constant threat on the feet. His ability to end fights instantly makes him one of the most dangerous fighters in the division.
This fight is a classic striker-versus-grappler matchup, which often produces unpredictable and exciting outcomes.
Lightweight Opener: Green vs. Stephens
Opening the UFC 328 main card is a lightweight bout between King Green and Jeremy Stephens.
Green is known for his slick boxing and defensive skills, while Stephens brings veteran experience and knockout power. Both fighters are fan favorites, making this an ideal fight to kick off the main card.
Stephens’ return adds an extra layer of intrigue, as fans will be eager to see how he performs against a seasoned opponent like Green.
Why UFC 328 Stands Out
The UFC 328 main card stands out for several reasons:
1. Two Title Fights
Having both a middleweight and flyweight title fight on the same card significantly increases its importance.
2. Star Power
Fighters like Chimaev and Strickland bring global attention, while rising stars like Taira add fresh excitement.
3. Balanced Matchmaking
The card includes a mix of veterans and contenders across multiple weight classes, ensuring variety and competitiveness.
4. High Stakes
Several fights have title implications or could determine future contenders.
Event Details and Expectations
UFC 328 will take place on May 9, 2026, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The event is expected to draw significant attention from fans worldwide, given the strength of its lineup.
With the main card now confirmed, anticipation continues to build as fans await the full preliminary lineup.
What This Means for the UFC in 2026
The announcement of the UFC 328 main card highlights the promotion’s continued momentum in 2026. With stacked events scheduled throughout the year, the UFC is maintaining a high level of competition and entertainment.
UFC 328, in particular, serves as a key event leading into even bigger cards later in the year. The outcomes of these fights could shape multiple divisions and influence future title matchups.
Final Thoughts
The UFC 328 main card delivers everything fans could want—title fights, rising stars, veteran matchups, and high-stakes competition.
From the headline clash between Chimaev and Strickland to the newly added flyweight title bout, every fight on the card carries significance.
As fight night approaches, all eyes will be on Newark to see which fighters rise to the occasion and which storylines will define the next chapter of the UFC.
