“Paramount Do Something” – Fans Call for Sacking After Sean Strickland’s Brutal NFL and Bad Bunny Rant

Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland goes on a fiery rant when asked about Bad Bunny's Halftime performance at Superbowl LX.

“Paramount Do Something” – Fans Call for Sacking After Sean Strickland’s Brutal NFL and Bad Bunny Rant

Sean Strickland calls out Bad Bunny's Superbowl performance(via New York Times, CODE Sports)

In Short
  • Sean Strickland faced backlash for his controversial comments about Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance during a UFC media day.
  • Fans are calling for the UFC to take action against Strickland, citing his remarks as offensive and damaging to the sport's image.
  • The incident has sparked widespread debate about free speech and accountability within the UFC, with mixed reactions from fans and fighters alike.

Sean Strickland has become one of the most controversial figures on the UFC roster, often drawing scrutiny for his outspoken views and polarizing persona. The former middleweight champion has repeatedly made headlines for comments delivered during media appearances and promotional events. His latest controversy followed a tirade targeting Bad Bunny over the artist’s performance at Super Bowl LX.

Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio or better known as Bad Bunny is a Puerto Rican rapper and global music star who has headlined international tours and topped Billboard charts. He performed at the Super Bowl LX halftime show, one of the most-watched broadcasts in the USA. The Spanish-language focus and emphasis on Latin culture during the performance drew significant public attention and debate across platforms.

Strickland is now set to face Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston on 21st February 2026 and was recently fulfilling media day obligations ahead of the bout. During those appearances, the former middleweight champion once again displayed his outspoken and controversial persona. When asked about Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime performance, Strickland openly shared his criticism of the widely debated show.

Look at the NFL, dude. I don’t even want to say the f***ot’s name because it’s just like, what – somebody give me his name. It’s so crazy that this is America now. Like, back in the day dude, the NFL was the f***ng standard of being a f***ng man, and now every f***ng year, the NFL, I think they all get together around a table and say, ‘You know what, guys? How do we f***ng ruin this sport? How do we gay it up? Well, I’ll tell you what. Why don’t we bring a gay foreigner who doesn’t speak f***ng English and have him perform it?

Sean Strickland via UFC Houston media day

Jake Paul also publicly criticized the Super Bowl halftime show, urging viewers not to watch the performance and referring to Bad Bunny as a “fake American.” His remarks drew heightened scrutiny across combat sports circles and beyond. The backlash included responses from his brother Logan Paul and Puerto Rican boxer Amanda Serrano, who is a close associate of Paul and has competed under his promotion.

Sean Strickland has long been associated with controversy due to his blunt public persona and unfiltered commentary. He has publicly advocated for expansive gun rights and criticized proposed gun control measures in the United States. Several past media appearances have resulted in official warnings and heightened scrutiny, reinforcing his reputation as one of the UFC’s most polarizing figures.

What stood out most was that coverage of Sean Strickland’s rant over Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance was reported by Variety. The outlet is primarily known for entertainment and global industry coverage rather than MMA news. Its decision to highlight the incident showed how the controversy extended beyond the UFC and into mainstream media conversation nationwide and internationally.

Fans react to Sean Strickland’s unfiltered rant on Bad Bunny’s Superbowl performance

A section of fans urged the UFC to take action against Sean Strickland for what they described as offensive remarks, calling for stricter oversight of fighter conduct. Many questioned whether the promotion could permit such behavior in the wake of its reported $7.7 billion streaming rights agreement with Paramount+. Some argued that heightened corporate partnerships and global visibility bring added responsibility.

Sean Strickland takes hilarious shots at the UFC
Sean Strickland takes hilarious shots at the UFC (via Bloody Elbow)

At the same time, a large portion of MMA and general sports fans criticized Sean Strickland’s remarks, calling them unnecessary and damaging to the sport’s image. Some expressed concern that repeated controversies overshadow his fighting career and upcoming bouts. Others pointed out that major sporting events like the Super Bowl halftime show often celebrate diverse cultures and global audiences.

Many fans also pushed back against calls for punishment, reminding others that this is the UFC, where free speech has often been heavily advocated. They pointed out that UFC CEO Dana White has voiced support for fighters expressing their opinions publicly. In that context, supporters argued that Sean Strickland’s remarks align with the promotion’s long-standing stance on allowing athletes to speak freely.

Also Read: