Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has some clear conditions if he’s to fight in a title rematch with Dricus du Plessis next year. Strickland, who hasn’t fought since his split-decision win over Paulo Costa at UFC 302, is holding firm on where he’s willing to step back into the Octagon.
After defeating Costa, Strickland made it clear he wouldn’t return to action unless a title shot was on the line. As the UFC looks ahead to 2025, a rematch between Strickland and du Plessis is rumoured to be on the cards. But Strickland is adamant he won’t be fighting in Australia.
UFC Sean Strickland Refuses to Fight at UFC 312 in Australia
“I’m not fighting in Australia. We’re thinking Vegas in March,” Strickland stated in a recent tweet. “I have a love for the Aussies. BUT I don’t think your government likes me… Which I take as a compliment!! Hate speech isn’t real, and I’ll always speak up for my kangaroo homies!!!!!! FRRRRREEEEEDDDOOOOOOMM!”
While Strickland is eyeing Vegas for his next bout, du Plessis and the UFC have yet to comment publicly on his demand. Du Plessis currently holds the middleweight title, having defended it with a submission victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 305. Despite this, he’s hinted that Chimaev, who is undefeated and recently beat Robert Whittaker, might be a more deserving contender for the title than Strickland.
Sean Strickland has had an impressive career at middleweight, becoming a fan favorite with wins over notable fighters like Uriah Hall, Abus Magomedov, and Brendan Allen. His victory over Adesanya at UFC 293 also propelled him into the spotlight, but the loss to du Plessis at UFC 297 put his title aspirations on hold.
With UFC 312 in Sydney still lacking a headliner, Strickland and du Plessis seem like an obvious choice. However, Strickland’s refusal to fight in Australia could complicate matters for the UFC as they finalize their 2025 line-up.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
