Current two-time middleweight champion Sean Strickland is reportedly considering vacating his title and moving up to the light heavyweight division (205 pounds) to complete his UFC contract. Sources say that “Tarzan” declined a title defense against top contender Nassourdine Imavov at UFC 335 due to dissatisfaction with his proposed payout. Consequently, the UFC scheduled a BMF title bout between Charles Oliveira and Diego Lopes as the main event for that card.
Strickland recently expressed his frustration publicly, revealing his displeasure with the UFC’s handling of fighter compensation. He hinted at potentially jumping to 205 pounds, finishing his contract there, and then pursuing a boxing match against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. On X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “I gotta be honest, unless things change with the UFC I’m kinda over it. McGregor makes 30 million to fight for 30 seconds, and they don’t want to pay us a fraction of it. Contemplating just going to 205, knocking out my contract and scrapping with @jakepaul. That sounds fun.”
Strickland also compared his earnings to those of Conor McGregor and Conor Benn, highlighting the stark pay gap. He remarked, “It’s just hard — McGregor 30 million, some lame boxer 15 million. The thought of just giving up my belt, going to 205, and speed-running my contract to fight Jake and make what these guys are making sounds pretty damn appealing.”
Meanwhile, Nassourdine Imavov has challenged Strickland over the situation. Offering $500K of his own money if Strickland defeats him in a January 2027 fight, Imavov claimed that if Strickland refuses, it shows fear and urged the UFC to strip him of the title. Imavov posted provocatively on social media, “If it’s really about money, I’ll put $500K of my own money on the line if you beat me in January @SStricklandMMA putting this on record. If you still don’t take it, then you’re just scared. I’ll handle you outside. @ufc THIS is your champ? Come on STRIP HIM #NoHappyEnding.”
Fan Take: This unfolding drama puts a spotlight on fighter pay and contract disputes in the UFC, issues that resonate strongly with fight fans worldwide. Sean Strickland’s bold threat to leave his title behind and chase opportunities elsewhere could spark important conversations about how fighters are valued and compensated, potentially influencing the sport’s future landscape.
Source: www.lowkickmma.com
