A Hidden Setback Before the Main Event
Sean Strickland has reclaimed his status as the UFC middleweight champion, but the path to victory was far more difficult than it appeared. Following his monumental split-decision win against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in Newark, New Jersey, Strickland revealed that he competed with a significant physical setback.
According to the 35-year-old fighter, the injury occurred just four days before the bout. During a sparring session with PFL champion Johnny Eblen at Plinio Cruz’s gym, a takedown attempt forced Strickland into a wall, resulting in a grade-one AC joint separation in his shoulder. Reflecting on the incident during the post-fight press conference, Strickland admitted, “I remember lying in bed on Tuesday night, and I can't lie on my right side. I'm like, 'You're such a f*ing idiot.'”
Overcoming Physical and Mental Hurdles
The injury forced Strickland to adjust his pre-fight routine significantly, as he opted to forgo a full warm-up to avoid aggravating the shoulder. The impact of the injury was evident early on, particularly in the first round when Chimaev utilized his superior wrestling to control the pace. However, Strickland managed to turn the tide in the second round, keeping the action primarily on the feet for the remainder of the contest.
The fight saw a moment of high tension in the fifth round when Chimaev invited a stand-up exchange, only to attempt a takedown immediately after. Strickland recalled the internal frustration of that moment:
“I remember thinking, he had me against the cage, and I was like, 'Dude, if you lose this fing fight because you were a fing c and trusted this man, I'm going to go commit suicide. You are a stupid motherfer, Sean.'”
Future Matchups and the Path Forward
Despite the competitive intensity, Strickland showed respect for his opponent, acknowledging Chimaev as a relentless fighter. Looking ahead, UFC CEO Dana White has suggested that Chimaev may consider a move to the light heavyweight division, which potentially paves the way for a title defense against the top-ranked Nassourdine Imavov.
Strickland expressed openness to facing Imavov, emphasizing his respect for the legitimacy of the UFC rankings. While he is willing to grant the challenger a title opportunity, the champion set a firm boundary regarding the location of future bouts.
“I am never leaving this fing country again,” Strickland stated regarding potential international events. “I will never fight outside America again. I am a fing American, and I will f*ing die in this country.”