UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland seems to have a disdain for women’s MMA. In a recent statement, he expressed his belief that even an untrained civilian could outperform UFC 297’s co-headliners, Raquel Pennington and Mayra Bueno Silva.
Strickland is currently gearing up to defend his title against Dricus du Plessis in the upcoming headline event.
Over the last few years, Strickland has emerged as one of the most outspoken figures in the UFC. The 32-year-old American is unapologetic in sharing his unfiltered opinions, especially on sensitive social issues.
Strickland has not shied away from expressing controversial opinions, particularly concerning the female gender. He advocates for removing women from the workforce and dismisses the notion of women participating in professional sports.
During the recent UFC 297 media day press conference, Strickland was confronted with Pennington’s comments. Dismissing her statements, the 185-pound champion went on to criticize women’s MMA as a whole.
He said: “Women’s MMA? Sure, have women’s MMA… I don’t like to watch it. I don’t think most people like to watch it… Any one of you f**ks [reporters] could probably beat our co-main event in a fight… I don’t want to see two f**king cats fight, I want to see lions fight.”
Fans swiftly flocked to the comments section to express their opinions on Strickland’s remarks.
One fan drew parallels between Strickland and influencer Andrew Tate, stating: “MMA world. We have an Andrew Tate.”
Another fan endorsed Strickland’s perspective, commenting: “Not one lie told by the champ.”
Last year Strickland criticized Tate for his behavior and advised children not to look up to him. He declared:
“He’s more of a con artist… Here’s the thing: if you’re behind a keyboard and you’re pretending to be a woman… Andrew Tate might be a f***ing fa**ot. Got a little g*y in him… He’s a w**re. Andrew Tate’s a f***ing piece of sh*t.”