What happened to Sean Strickland’s father? Explaining how Dricus Du Plessis won mental warfare
All the details about Sean Strickland and his father, and how Dricus Du Plessis used this to his advantage before their fight at UFC 297.
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Dricus Du Plessis took wild shots referencing to Sean Strickland's father ahead of their fight (Image via MMA Fighting/Bloody Elbow)
A playful and peaceful environment is widely regarded as one of the most essential factors for nurturing a child within their home. Unfortunately, one notable figure who did not experience such a supportive upbringing is Sean Strickland, a former UFC middleweight champion. Reports reveal that Strickland endured a tumultuous childhood marked by the shadow of an abusive father.
Sean Strickland has become one of the most talked-about superstars in the UFC. At 33 years old, this American fighter has earned a reputation for his impressive skills inside the octagon and his sharp tongue and bold personality. Known for his unfiltered trash talk, Strickland often attracts attention for his controversial statements and actions, which have drawn significant backlash from fans and fellow competitors.
Over the years, there have been several instances where Strickland was silenced by notable competitors. One such fighter is the reigning UFC middleweight champion, Dricus Du Plessis. The South African fighter engaged in a brutal back-and-forth with Strickland ahead of their clash at UFC 297. At one point during their exchanges, Du Plessis even brought up Strickland’s troubled past with his father, which struck a nerve with the American fighter.
What happened to Sean Strickland’s father?
As of now, there is no information available about the name of Sean Strickland’s father. However, the American fighter has shared several instances regarding his father in the past. According to ‘Tarzan’, he grew up in a household where his father was both physically and mentally abusive. During Strickland’s early childhood, he even once attacked his father with a guitar in an attempt to defend his mother.
Additionally, Strickland fled from home and contacted local law enforcement, which led to his father’s brief arrest. This reflects the turbulent and unstable childhood Strickland experienced, filled with hatred and resentment toward his father. Unfortunately, Strickland’s father passed away from cancer in 2017 at the age of 50.
How did Dricus Du Plessis take advantage of Tarzan’s traumatic past?
Interestingly, Sean Strickland has a tendency to provoke his opponents’ emotions, and this sometimes backfires. Leading up to the middleweight championship fight at UFC 297, Dricus Du Plessis made some harsh and brutal remarks directed at Strickland. These comments eventually triggered an emotional outburst from the American fighter just days before the match.
In the aftermath, Strickland issued aggressive warnings to the South African fighter. Ultimately, both competitors faced off in the main event of UFC 297. After five rounds, Du Plessis emerged victorious, claiming the middleweight title from Strickland by split decision. Notably, many praised the South African fighter’s mental tactics against the American, believing they played a significant role in his success during the match.
Currently, these two fighters are set to face off again in the headliner bout of UFC 312. Interestingly, in the days leading up to their clash, both Strickland and Du Plessis have been taking consistent shots at each other. However, so far, there haven’t been any personal attacks between the two UFC middleweight fighters, unlike their previous encounter. Now, it remains to be seen if Strickland can seek vengeance against Du Plessis this weekend.
Related: Sean Strickland Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife and House
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Nilaav Gogoi
(594 Articles Published)