Sean Strickland provided fans around the world with one of the biggest championship upsets the UFC has ever seen. After putting on a clinical striking masterclass against Israel Adesanya, Strickland reflects on his journey to Championship contention.
Tale of the Tape
It was a shock to many that Sean Strickland would be fighting for a title in 2023. With Dricus Du Plessis being unable to fight Israel Adesanya in time, Sean got the call. With many counting out the middleweight veteran, he proved all the doubters wrong and clinically dismantled Israel over 5 rounds, winning via unanimous decision. Dropping Adesanya in the first round, utilising a philly shell perfectly, and staying patient each round worked greatly in Strickland’s favour.
Post Fight Interview:
Strickland’s demeanor during his post-fight interview was just as outspoken as ever, where he reflected on his tough journey to a title shot. He stated “Thank God for child abuse, right? F**K yeah. Let’s go, childhood traumas or repressed memories, you got me where I needed to be. Dad, you’re fu***ng awesome man. All the years of abuse, you really… you really made me the man I had to be today”.
“I don’t f***ing know, you guys. I’m just happy that this f***ing world has a place for us, you know? If it wasn’t for this, man, I’m sure I would’ve f***ing committed some random act of violence and f***ing been locked up for killing somebody, so f***ing huzzah to UFC man. Thank you for f***ing saving someone’s life, including my own.”
What Happens Next?
Whatever happens next, Strickland deserves all the credit for not only dominating, but dropping Israel for the first time in his career. Some say the performance was so dominant, there is no need for a rematch. Others, including Dana White think that an immediate rematch is in order. Regardless of this, no one can deny the excitement this sport provides in moments of shocking victories like this!
Who’s next for Sean Strickland? Let us know your thoughts below!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
