Jon Anik is bracing for fireworks when Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland collide at UFC 328 on May 9 at the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.
Chimaev, described as the middleweight champion with a 15-0 MMA and 9-0 UFC record, is set to face ex-titleholder Strickland, who enters with a 30-7 MMA and 17-7 UFC mark. UFC CEO Dana White has said there will be increased security throughout fight week to prevent the two from getting physical before the fight.
"I can't be the only one in the fight game that roots for straight chaos," Anik said, adding, "Whether it's in arena or at a press conference. I'm not necessarily talking about Monster Energy drinks flying through the air, but I want security to have to intervene. I want friction. I do believe that when there is heat or friction or bad blood on a matchup, it only heightens things."
The UFC’s lead play-by-play commentator also highlighted Chimaev’s presence in the cage: "I have also said about Khamzat Chimaev: He's the most electrifying force in the game. So when you shut the octagon door behind him and anyone else, oftentimes chaos ensues, whether it's quick against Robert Whittaker or a long game like he did against Gilbert Burns."
Anik credited Strickland’s recent work for securing the title shot, saying, "Sean Strickland couldn't have done more to earn this opportunity, he couldn't have done more with the Anthony 'Fluffy' Hernandez showcase to get this fight," before warning, "Boys, caution flammable come May 9."
