Hold onto your hats, fight fans, because Sean Strickland has thrown a curveball! He's turned down a potential clash with Anthony Hernandez at UFC 325 in Sydney, Australia. But why? Let's dive in. This news comes from Alexander Behunin, who's deeply involved in the MMA scene, managing social media for MMAmania.com and covering live events, including interviewing the biggest names in the sport.
Strickland, the former UFC Middleweight champion, is preparing for a comeback after a six-month suspension following an incident where he assaulted a regional fighter. The UFC saw this as a perfect opportunity to reintroduce him: a high-stakes bout against the rising star, Anthony "Fluffy" Hernandez, in Sydney. However, Strickland declined.
His reason? Medical insurance. Strickland stated on social media that he loves Australia, but he wasn't keen on fighting there due to the cost of medical insurance. He didn't want to give a significant portion of his earnings to cover it. Both Strickland and Hernandez seem to prefer the fight to take place in the United States. Strickland declared, "Let’s get this shit booked in the States. I’m an American."
But here's where it gets controversial... Strickland's decision brings up questions about the financial realities for fighters and the logistics of competing internationally. Is it fair to expect fighters to shoulder the burden of medical expenses when competing abroad?
The potential Strickland vs. Hernandez matchup is a compelling one. Hernandez's aggressive wrestling style would face off against Strickland's underrated takedown defense and precise boxing. It's a stylistic clash that promises fireworks.
Bringing Strickland back to the U.S. also makes sense. He's only fought in America once in the past two years and never as champion. A California card would be ideal, given that both fighters hail from there.
Strickland is coming off a title fight loss to Dricus du Plessis and has a record of 1-2 in his last three fights. On the other hand, Hernandez is on an impressive eight-fight winning streak. He was close to a title shot before an injury.
What do you think? If the UFC books this fight in the States, who do you see winning? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments!
