Sean Strickland Record: 29-7-0
Sean Strickland, born on February 27, 1991, in Anaheim, California, is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC)’s Middleweight division. He is a former UFC Middleweight Champion and has been active in professional MMA since 2008.
Early Life and Background
Strickland had a challenging upbringing in Corona, California, marked by a physically and mentally abusive father. During his adolescence, he adopted neo-Nazi ideologies, influenced by his grandfather and media such as the film “American History X.” However, his perspective began to change after he started training in mixed martial arts, where interactions with diverse individuals led him to abandon these beliefs.
Mixed Martial Arts Career
Strickland began his professional MMA career with King of the Cage, where he became the Middleweight Champion. He made his UFC debut in 2014, securing a submission victory over Bubba McDaniel. Throughout his UFC tenure, Strickland has competed in multiple weight classes, including Middleweight, Welterweight, and Light Heavyweight. He is known for his striking skills and resilience inside the octagon.
Championship and Notable Fights
In September 2023, Strickland achieved a significant upset by defeating Israel Adesanya via unanimous decision to claim the UFC Middleweight Championship. He later faced Dricus du Plessis in January 2024 at UFC 297, where he lost the title by split decision. A rematch took place on February 9, 2025, at UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia, where Strickland was defeated by du Plessis via unanimous decision.
Controversies and Public Persona
Strickland is known for his outspoken and often controversial statements. He has faced criticism for comments on various social and political issues, including LGBTQ+ topics and women’s rights. His remarks have sparked debates and drawn attention both within and outside the MMA community.
Recent Activities
As of February 2025, Strickland continues to compete in the UFC’s Middleweight division. Despite recent losses, he remains a prominent figure in the sport, known for his aggressive fighting style and candid demeanor.
