Sean Strickland praises NFL star Maxx Crosby following hard sparring session

UFC veteran Sean Strickland expressed considerable admiration for NFL star Maxx Crosby following their recent sparring session.

Outside the octagon, Strickland is well-known for his intense sparring sessions with various public figures. The former UFC champion is notorious for his aggressive style, regardless of his training partner's experience level. While many online personalities have faced his rigorous approach, he recently shared the mat with an NFL defensive end.

Given his professional career, Maxx Crosby is intimately familiar with discipline and demanding routines, which complements his part-time engagement in combat sports. Crosby frequently integrates mixed martial arts and boxing into his offseason training. When presented with the opportunity, he eagerly accepted to share rounds with Sean Strickland, despite the latter's reputation for a rough fighting style.

Despite lacking Strickland's extensive experience, Crosby reportedly performed commendably throughout their three-round exchange. Both athletes emerged from the session with minor injuries: Strickland with a cut lip and Crosby with a bloody nose.

After footage of the training session circulated online, Sean Strickland was swift to commend the NFL standout for his resilience.

"Max started strong in the beginning," Strickland remarked. "But, Max is a true badass. He's an NFL superstar who dons gloves purely for enjoyment and the love of the sport."

Maxx Crosby credits the incorporation of combat sports into his regimen with improving his hand speed and pass-rush ability.

His dedication to strapping on the gloves and immersing himself in mixed martial arts has even caught the attention of UFC CEO Dana White. Impressed by the footballer's natural talent, White suggested that, with full commitment to fighting, Crosby could potentially enter the UFC heavyweight title contention within a few years.

Joining White and numerous other admirers, Sean Strickland unequivocally declared Crosby to be the toughest player in the NFL.

"Max is unequivocally the toughest NFL player, hands down!" Strickland reiterated.