UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has a unique theory about Israel Adesanya’s shocking upset loss.
Strickland is geared up for his upcoming UFC 293 main event, taking on the talented Dricus du Plessis. His title opportunity came after a triumphant victory over Robert Whittaker last July. But it was his shocking win over Israel Adesanya that really turned heads.
The middleweight champion attributes his win to Adesanya’s mental state, claiming that the former champion’s trash talking and entourage were his downfall. Strickland, on the other hand, aims to stay level-headed as he embarks on his reign as a UFC champion.
The outspoken champion elaborated on his mindset and approach to fighting in a recent interview with ESPN MMA. Strickland doesn’t believe in boasting or getting caught up in the trappings of fame. Instead, he’s focused on delivering thrilling fights and connecting with his fans.
His candid comments provide intriguing insight into his outlook and set the stage for a captivating battle with du Plessis this Saturday. This is one championship fight you wouldn’t want to miss.
Want to hear more from the outspoken middleweight champ? Check out the full interview on ESPN MMA.
Sean Strickland opens up on upset UFC title win over Israel Adesanya
“You know what it is? At some point, we all lose.” Sean Strickland stated to ESPN MMA, reflecting on his brief run with UFC gold to this point. “Do I beat the South African? Yes. I think I beat him, I think I knock him out and bring him into deep water. But, at some point, we all lose. You can be like Izzy, laying in a bathtub with flower petals and you could have an entourage and people following you around.”
He continued, “But, at some point, someone’s going to make fun of you for having sex with your dog. Then, you’re just going to crumble as a f*cking human being and get a DUI. That’s just not me because I’m level. You know what it is? I love my people. I love the fans, like I get such great people. But what do we do? What is my job? What do we do? I take my clothes off and do you see my face right now? This is just training. I shorten my life and beat the f*ck out of myself for the enjoyment of people.”
“…What I’m saying you guys, is you’re never going to see my in a bathtub with rose petals, and tell you that I’m the greatest in the world.” Sean Strickland concluded.