Sean Strickland Slams UFC and Rivals Ahead of UFC 312

Sean Strickland is never one to hold back his opinions, but during the UFC 312 media day, he took his outspoken nature to new heights. The former middleweight champion delivered scathing remarks about the UFC, Dana White, and several of his rivals. He also criticized the organization’s partnership with Saudi Arabia and claimed that his previous loss to Dricus du Plessis was unfair.

“UFC is a Dictatorship” – Strickland Goes on the Offensive

Strickland wasted no time launching an attack on the UFC, accusing the organization of running a dictatorship where fighters have little to no say in their careers. He claimed that those who challenge UFC management are penalized with fewer opportunities and worse contracts.

“I love fighting, but let’s be honest – we live in a dictatorship. If you say the wrong things, you get sidelined. If you’re not a corporate shill, UFC doesn’t back you,” Strickland stated.

He further argued that UFC favors fighters who remain loyal to the organization rather than those who perform the best inside the octagon. Citing Francis Ngannou as an example, Strickland pointed out how UFC let go of a reigning heavyweight champion simply because he refused to accept an unfair deal.

Blasting UFC’s Partnership with Saudi Arabia

One of Strickland’s most controversial statements was his criticism of UFC’s growing relationship with Saudi Arabia. He questioned the ethics behind the partnership and suggested that money is the sole driving force behind the decision.

“I’m an American who loves my country. But think about this – some of the 9/11 hijackers had Saudi passports. And now, UFC is suddenly best friends with them? I’m just saying, it’s interesting.”

His comments are likely to spark reactions, as UFC president Dana White has consistently defended the organization’s business ties with Saudi Arabia. Strickland, however, remains firm in his belief that business interests outweigh moral considerations in UFC’s decision-making.

“UFC sells itself to the highest bidder, and it’s always someone with big money from Saudi Arabia. That’s how it works.”

Mocking Dricus du Plessis and Alex Pereira

Aside from his criticisms of the UFC, Strickland also took aim at his competitors. His biggest rival at the moment, Dricus du Plessis, was not spared from verbal jabs. Strickland claimed that du Plessis only won their first fight due to an illegal headbutt and vowed to correct that mistake in their rematch.

“That bastard headbutted me. That’s what made the difference. But on Sunday, I’m sending him back where he belongs.”

Strickland also commented on Alex Pereira’s decision to corner du Plessis for UFC 312. While he doesn’t seem particularly concerned about Pereira’s presence, he did suggest that the Brazilian champion is motivated by hatred rather than loyalty.

“Alex is just a guy who hates. He’s got money, he’s got titles, but he still carries that hate in his heart. In a way, I respect that – at least he hasn’t gone soft.”

Can Strickland Back Up His Words?

Sean Strickland remains one of the most controversial figures in the UFC, and his statements ahead of UFC 312 have once again made headlines. However, when the cage door closes, it’s his performance inside the octagon that will matter most.

Dricus du Plessis has already proven himself as one of the top middleweights in the world and won’t let Strickland’s trash talk affect him. Whether Strickland can reclaim his title or du Plessis silences him for good will be decided this Sunday at UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia.

Stay tuned to MMAnytt for full coverage of UFC 312!

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