Sean Strickland is exploring his options for his next fight after his loss to Dricus du Plessis earlier this year. His attention is now turned towards former welterweight contender Belal Muhammad, hoping he will finally follow through on past challenges.
Muhammad has frequently criticized Strickland over the past year, even labeling the former middleweight champion a “coward” after his defeat at UFC 312. When asked about his desired next opponent, Strickland recalled Muhammad`s outspoken remarks, particularly in light of Muhammad`s recent loss to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315.
Strickland expressed interest, stating, “Belal would be a fun fight, that`d be a fun one.” He directly challenged Muhammad, urging him to “sack up” and make the fight happen, referencing Muhammad`s previous trash talk and the fact that he recently lost his title. Strickland noted that both fighters are coming off tough losses and suggested it would be a good time for them to face off.
Strickland was clear that the bout would need to occur at middleweight. “Well, you`re going to middleweight,” he stated, explaining he walks around at approximately 230 pounds and is unwilling to cut down to welterweight again. He reminded Muhammad of past online statements promising to move up in weight, challenging him to fulfill those words now.
Strickland`s recent record shows two losses in his last three fights, both against du Plessis, following his championship win over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in September 2023. Despite this, the 34-year-old is eager to return to the octagon and mentioned he was interested in a potential fight with Reinier de Ridder following de Ridder`s victory over Bo Nickal.
However, the fight with de Ridder is not feasible, as he is already scheduled to face Robert Whittaker in the main event of UFC Abu Dhabi in July. Strickland also disclosed that he was offered a fight against another top-ranked middleweight opponent but declined it, adding that the other fighter also refused the matchup.
Strickland elaborated on the declined offer, stating he wanted to fight de Ridder, but matchmaker Mick Maynard proposed a fight against Caio Borralho. Strickland explained his refusal, citing the awkwardness of fighting someone he knows personally, including their family, calling it “not fun.”
He reiterated his preference for fighting de Ridder, acknowledging his jiu-jitsu skills and recent win over Bo Nickal, whom Strickland somewhat dismissively referred to.