Newark, NJ – A rising star in the UFC’s middleweight division is set to compete at UFC 328, taking place at the Prudential Center on May 9, 2026. Undefeated Baisangur Susurkaev will face Djorden Santos in a bout that adds further intrigue to a card already featuring a welterweight clash between Sean Brady and Joaquin Buckley, originally slated to headline a UFC Fight Night event.
Susurkaev, quickly becoming a fan favorite, has stormed into the UFC with a series of impressive finishes. The addition of this matchup to UFC 328, as first reported by Léo Guimares, promises to deliver another exciting contest for fight fans. The event is already shaping up to be a significant one for the promotion’s return to New Jersey, with several compelling bouts already announced.
Susurkaev’s Rapid Ascent in the UFC
The 25-year-traditional Susurkaev earned his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series, stopping Murtaza Talha with a first-round finish that garnered praise from UFC CEO Dana White. His professional record currently stands at 10-0, with eight of those victories coming by way of knockout or technical knockout. This impressive striking power and finishing ability have quickly established him as a prospect to watch in the middleweight division.
Just days after securing his contract, Susurkaev made his promotional debut at UFC 319, defeating Eric Nolan via rear-naked choke in the second round. He followed that up with a third-round knockout victory over Eric McConico at UFC 322, further solidifying his position as a dangerous contender. His fourth fight of 2025 showcased his ability to go the distance when needed, though he continues to seek finishes whenever possible.
Santos Looks to Build Momentum
Djorden Santos, also a product of the Contender Series, will be looking to build on his recent success when he steps into the Octagon with Susurkaev. Santos earned his UFC contract after a decision victory over Will Currie in 2024. While his promotional debut at UFC 313 resulted in a loss to Ozzy Diaz, “Shakur” rebounded with a unanimous decision win over Danny Barlow last October, demonstrating his resilience and potential within the organization.
Santos entered his DWCS matchup with a 9-1 record, showcasing his skills and determination. He’ll undoubtedly be aiming to upset Susurkaev and further establish himself as a rising force in the middleweight division.
UFC 328 Fight Card
UFC 328 is already shaping up to be a compelling event, with several other notable matchups confirmed:
- Alexander Volkov vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta
- Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley
- Ateba Gautier vs. Ozzy Diaz
- Roman Kopylov vs. Marco Tulio
- Clayton Carpenter vs. Jose Ochoa
- Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Djorden Santos
The card’s main event remains unconfirmed, but with the addition of Susurkaev vs. Santos, and the already stacked lineup, anticipation is building for the UFC’s return to Newark. Fans will be eager to notice if Susurkaev can continue his undefeated streak and further cement his status as a future title contender.
As UFC 328 approaches, all eyes will be on the middleweight clash between Susurkaev and Santos. The outcome of this fight could have significant implications for the division’s landscape and potentially propel the winner into contention. Stay tuned for further updates on the card and the developing storylines as the event draws nearer.
What are your predictions for the fight between Baisangur Susurkaev and Djorden Santos? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow MMA fans!
