The immediate future for the main card winners and losers of UFC 328 presents several compelling matchups, with the most anticipated being a potential clash between Sean Strickland and Khamzat Chimaev. Following their respective performances, the landscape of the middleweight division is set for significant shifts. For Strickland, a former champion, securing another high-profile fight is crucial to re-establish his path back to the title. Chimaev, meanwhile, remains one of the division's most dangerous contenders, and a fight against a recognized name like Strickland would solidify his standing near the top.

Beyond the headline pairing, the outcomes of the other main card bouts dictate several other logical next steps. For the winner of the co-main event, a step up in competition is likely, potentially targeting a top-five opponent if they were not already ranked there. Conversely, the loser faces a crucial decision: either take a step back to rebuild momentum or accept a high-risk, high-reward fight against another rising contender. Sources suggest that matchmakers are keen on keeping the division active, prioritizing fights that generate significant fan interest and move the title picture forward. While the Strickland-Chimaev bout is the frontrunner, "wild card" options remain on the table, particularly if injuries or scheduling conflicts arise, potentially involving fighters ranked just outside the immediate top tier who could be elevated quickly with a decisive victory. The overall goal for the UFC brass is to create matchups that maintain the competitive integrity of the division while maximizing pay-per-view appeal.