UFC Steps In to Stop Controversial Fighter Sean Strickland’s Expletive Rant

Controversial UFC middleweight Sean Strickland gets silenced by the UFC after third round TKO win at UFC Houston.

UFC Steps In to Stop Controversial Fighter Sean Strickland’s Expletive Rant

Sean Strickland's mic gets cut (via MMA Fighting)

In Short
  • Sean Strickland's post-fight press conference was abruptly interrupted when UFC officials cut his microphone during a controversial rant.
  • He earned a third-round technical knockout victory over Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston, calling out middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev afterward.
  • Strickland's outspoken remarks have drawn criticism from peers and media, contrasting with UFC CEO Dana White's stance on free speech within the promotion.

Sean Strickland has long been one of the most controversial UFC fighters, known for outspoken remarks. Many expected he might hold back following the promotion’s Paramount+ deal. From his first press conference under the new arrangement, Strickland began making headlines for controversial comments. After his UFC Houston win, he kept up the same pace until the promotion abruptly cut his microphone.

At UFC Houston, Strickland earned a third-round technical knockout over Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez at Toyota Center. He controlled the fight with precise striking and consistent pressure throughout the rounds. After the win, Strickland called out reigning middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev. His victory highlighted his experience and ability to outperform ranked opponents.

At the post-fight press conference, Strickland started by discussing his win over Hernandez. He then moved to controversial topics, including UFC veteran Jim West and allegations involving former UFC bantamweight Aspen Ladd. Strickland was preparing to speak about Chimaev when UFC officials cut his microphone. Despite losing the audio feed, he continued speaking, undeterred by the interruption.

Leading up to UFC Houston, Strickland made numerous controversial comments that kept him in headlines, even on websites that rarely cover MMA. His outspoken remarks drew attention beyond sports media, reaching mainstream entertainment outlets. Variety, one of the biggest entertainment news websites, reported on his homophobic comments about rapper Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime performance.

The controversial middleweight was also called out by UFC legend and former women’s double champion Amanda Nunes for comments that diminished the credibility of women’s MMA. Strickland had stated that any weak man could easily defeat even the most dominant UFC women’s champion. His remarks drew criticism from former champions and peers alike, highlighting his tendency to stay in the spotlight.

The mic-cut incident at UFC Houston contrasts with UFC CEO Dana White’s stated beliefs about free speech in the promotion. White has previously criticized reporters for asking provocative questions. After the event, he reinforced that reporters should focus on the sport rather than controversies. The episode highlights the tension between Sean Strickland’s outspoken nature and the promotion’s approach.

Sean Strickland commends Anthony Hernandez after UFC Houston win

Before UFC Houston, Anthony Hernandez was on an eight-fight winning streak, establishing himself as a legitimate middleweight title contender. Fluffy’s victories included wins over ranked opponents such as Brendan Allen and Michel Pereira, showcasing both striking and grappling skills. Hernandez had steadily climbed the divisional rankings, earning recognition for his consistency inside the octagon

Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez
Sean Strickland and Anthony Hernandez (via MMA Fighting)

Before UFC Houston, Sean Strickland repeatedly called out Anthony Hernandez during media events, using provocative language to promote their matchup. Hernandez responded by dismissing the taunts and warning Strickland he would face a tough challenge. After the fight, the bad blood was squashed when the controversial middleweight publicly commended ‘Fluffy’ for his performance.

Fluffy is the definition of a man. To be honest, he’s the man I want to be. He’s married. He’s a father. He’s a hard worker. He’s a bigger man than I can ever hope to be.

Sean Strickland via UFC

Sean Strickland’s praise for Anthony Hernandez revealed a rarely seen side of his personality, contrasting sharply with his usual outspoken and controversial image. The gesture highlighted respect and sportsmanship, showing that even fiery competitors can recognize their peers’ character. It offered a moment of humility and admiration in a sport often defined by trash talk.

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