John McCarthy: Scoring for Strickland vs. Chimaev 'was done perfectly' (2026)

The recent UFC 328 main event between Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike. John McCarthy, a renowned commentator, offers his expert insight into the scoring, providing a unique perspective on the controversial decision. In his opinion, the judges' scoring was spot-on, and he breaks down why.

Strickland's victory was a close call, with all three judges having it 2-2 heading into the final round. McCarthy highlights the key moments in each round, emphasizing the importance of effective striking and positional control. He argues that Chimaev's aggressive approach in the early rounds, while impressive, lacked the necessary damage to sway the judges' decisions.

In Round 3, Chimaev's strategy shifted to pressure on the feet, but McCarthy points out the critical aspect of landing effective strikes. He explains that Chimaev's takedowns and positional changes were not enough to secure the round, as Strickland's counter-strikes and positional dominance proved more impactful. This perspective highlights the judges' attention to detail and their focus on the overall performance and strategy.

McCarthy's analysis delves into the nuances of mixed martial arts, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded performance. He suggests that the judges' decision was a fair reflection of the fight's dynamics, and he provides a comprehensive breakdown of why Strickland's victory was justified. This commentary offers a fresh and insightful take on the highly debated outcome, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the sport's intricacies.

In conclusion, John McCarthy's expert commentary adds a layer of depth to the Strickland-Chimaev fight, providing a unique perspective that challenges conventional thinking. His analysis is a testament to his expertise and his ability to dissect the finer points of the sport, leaving readers with a more nuanced understanding of the fight's outcome.

John McCarthy: Scoring for Strickland vs. Chimaev 'was done perfectly' (2026)
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