Sean Strickland Exposes UFC for Editing Out Unfiltered Thoughts: “Tell Me What You Want Me To Say”

Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland calls out the UFC for for filtering out his comments during promotional activities.

Sean Strickland Exposes UFC for Editing Out Unfiltered Thoughts: “Tell Me What You Want Me To Say”

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

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Sean Strickland is considered one of the most controversial fighters on the UFC roster, known for outspoken views and blunt public commentary. His strong opinions have frequently placed him under criticism throughout his career. Strickland has also taken repeated shots at UFC leadership, including CEO Dana White, in the past. Most recently, he explained why he dislikes filming content with the UFC.

Strickland is a former UFC middleweight champion who rose to the top of the division through steady and physical performances. He owns significant victories over the likes of Israel Adesanya, Paulo Costa, and Nassourdine Imavov. Outside the Octagon, Strickland frequently draws attention for his social media presence. His outspoken opinions commonly center on gun laws, liberalism, and political issues.

After losing his second title fight to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 312, Strickland spent nearly a year away from competition. He is now set to return to the Octagon in February 2026 against rising contender Anthony ‘Fluffy’ Hernandez. The matchup marks a key moment for ‘Tarzan’ as he looks to re-establish himself. During promotional activities for the bout, he explained why he dislikes filming content for the UFC.

I’m on my way to film with the UFC you guys and I hate filming with UFC because it’s all f***ing fraudulent, right? It’s like you know me unedited? They won’t play any of that s**t. So at the end of the day it’s like ‘alright UFC, tell me what you want me to say. I know you need content to put on YouTube or B-Roll, so just just tell me what you want me to say’. 
Then I’ll f***ing say it and I can get on with my day.

Sean Strickland via X

The UFC is placing increased emphasis on promotional output as it prepares to stream its first live event on Paramount+ following a reported $7.7 billion media rights agreement. The deal signals a deeper push into mainstream streaming, with expanded advertising and cross-promotion planned alongside Paramount. That broader push provides context for Strickland’s involvement in required media duties.

Strickland has previously directed criticism toward CEO Dana White, particularly regarding fighter compensation within the organization. He has argued that pay structures do not fairly reflect the risks athletes take at the highest level. Those remarks have further strained his relationship with UFC leadership over time. In response, White has publicly criticized Strickland for his unruly comments and behavior.

Sean Strickland is returning from a suspension stemming from a brawl in August 2025, which sidelined him for six months. The incident kept him inactive during a critical stretch of the middleweight title picture. His comeback now comes with added scrutiny beyond the fight. His comments on UFC promotional activity underline broader tensions between fighters and the organization.

Former UFC middleweight champion poses Sean Strickland as the hardest fight for Khamzat Chimaev

Khamzat Chimaev ushered in a new era of dominance after capturing the UFC title at UFC 319. The victory immediately reshaped the division, with multiple top contenders positioning themselves for a potential title opportunity. Attention quickly shifted to identifying challengers capable of competing against ‘Borz’. Many questioned which fighter could overcome Chimaev’s wrestling-heavy style.

Sean Strickland vows to defeat Khamzat Chimaev
Sean Strickland vows to defeat Khamzat Chimaev (via Bleacher Report, Bloody Elbow)

One of the first contenders to publicly position himself against Chimaev was Sean Strickland, who expressed confidence in a potential matchup. The controversial middleweight has pointed to past training sessions with Chimaev as a factor he believes could provide him with an advantage. Former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold later echoed that assessment when discussing the matchup.

Strickland should win a fight, and he’s probably the toughest test for Khamzat. Strickland is annoyingly hard to hold down. He’s not that good on the ground, but he can get up.

Luke Rockhold via JAXXON podcast

Sean Strickland entered his UFC 293 clash with Israel Adesanya as a clear majority underdog, with most analysts doubting his chances. Despite expectations, he defied the odds and secured the middleweight championship with a decisive performance. Luke Rockhold’s recent assessment of Strickland’s toughness against Chimaev adds further weight to the belief that he remains a formidable contender in the division.

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