Sean Strickland’s rise, rivalries and UFC journey in Australia

Sean Strickland is one of the most talked-about and divisive fighters in the UFC. Strickland’s story is full of guts, controversy, and raw skill. He went from having a problematic past to beating a champion on Australian soil. Fans and detractors alike are still talking about him, especially in Australia, because of his honest attitude and forthright words, even though his fighting skills are still impressive.

Troubled beginnings and turning to MMA

Sean Strickland was born on February 27, 1991, in Anaheim, California. His early years were quite hard. He grew up in a home where he was abused and was exposed to harmful ideas as a child. Strickland was kicked out of school and often got into issues with the law. His life was going downhill until he found mixed martial arts.

MMA became his way to get out of trouble and make things right. He turned pro at 17 in 2008 and instantly became known as a tough competitor.

UFC rise and fighting comeback

Strickland fought in the UFC for the first time in 2014 and progressively moved up the middleweight ranks. He became known as one of the toughest and most aggressive competitors in the division because of his constant pressure and well-planned strikes.

A bad motorbike accident in 2018 almost destroyed his career and kept him out of work for two years. But, like Strickland often does, he came back stronger, showing off a more honed fighting style and an even scarier mental edge.

Defeating Adesanya in Sydney – UFC 293

Strickland’s shocking win over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in Sydney was one of the most important moments in his career and one that closely connects him to Australia. A lot of people thought it was one of the biggest upsets in UFC middleweight history. Strickland not only outperformed his opponent in terms of skill, but he also kept his cool against one of the sport’s most decorated champions.

He won the middleweight belt and gained the respect of a lot of people who didn’t believe in him.

Rivalry with Dricus du Plessis

Strickland’s tenure as champion was short-lived, though, because he had a rivalry with Dricus du Plessis. He lost the title to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297 in a split decision that several people thought was unfair. The fight didn’t stop there. The UFC set up a rematch for UFC 312, which would also take place in Sydney. There was a lot of tension leading up to the fight because of Strickland’s controversial comments and du Plessis’ rising fame.

Strickland couldn’t get his championship back in the rematch, but the rivalry made things a lot more interesting in the division and kept Australian fans very interested.

Controversies and a personality that divides people

Strickland is known for speaking his mind, which often gets him into trouble. Before UFC 312, he made incendiary comments that got a lot of media attention in Australia. The Daily Telegraph labelled him “the UFC’s biggest idiot” in one story and said that someone should “knock this person out.”

Strickland didn’t apologise, even though people were angry. He claimed in a post-fight interview that he loved the passionate fight fans in Australia and would love to come back if the UFC would have him.

Some people like how honest he is, but others don’t like that he doesn’t have a filter. Australians have noticed either way.

Fighting style and numbers

Strickland’s approach is based on hitting a lot, putting constant pressure on his opponents, and having great defence.

• Position: Orthodox
• Length: 76 inches
• Significant strike defence: 65.4% (the best of all active UFC middleweights)
• Record: Has beaten Adesanya, Abus Magomedov, and Uriah Hall

Strickland stands out because he can keep control and set the tempo without exhibiting any emotion, even when things are really tense.

Why Australian fans are interested

Strickland’s performance in Sydney and his honest comments have made him an interesting person in the Australian MMA scene. Some fans like how tough he is and how he doesn’t take any crap, but others don’t like how he acts outside of the octagon.

Still, his story of redemption and ascension to the top has struck a chord. His fights have always gotten a lot of attention in Australia, especially when big events like UFC 293 and UFC 312 were held in Sydney.

Legacy and what’s next

Sean Strickland’s adventure is far from over. He has already made his mark on UFC history, whether he gets his belt back or not. He is still a controversial but interesting character for many Australians. He shows both the ruthless honesty and raw passion that combat sports can bring.

Sean Strickland is going to be a big part of MMA for a long time because he is eager to fight anyone, anywhere, and he is becoming more and more well-known throughout the world.

Conclusion

Sean Strickland is a rare kind of athlete: he wears his shortcomings on his sleeve and fights like every fight is personal. His fights in Australia have made him a part of UFC history and for Australian fans, he will probably be a part of many more fight nights in the future.