Sean Strickland, the former UFC middleweight champion, is often recognized for his consistent pressure and ability to win decisions against tough opponents, including his notable victories over Paulo Costa and Israel Adesanya. However, one particular knockout win stands out for showcasing his remarkable resilience and determination inside the Octagon.
The Challenging Bout Against Abus Magomedov
In July 2023, Strickland headlined a UFC Fight Night event at the Apex against Abus Magomedov. This fight marked Strickland`s return to the 185 lbs middleweight division after a previous win at light heavyweight. At the time, Magomedov was presented by UFC CEO Dana White as a formidable, potentially avoided challenger, suggesting many middleweight contenders were hesitant to face him before Strickland accepted the matchup.
Despite the main event being scheduled for five rounds, Abus Magomedov approached the fight with explosive intensity from the opening bell. He launched a rapid barrage of strikes in the first minute, severely stunning Strickland and putting him in immediate danger. Magomedov also managed to secure a rare takedown against Strickland, who typically boasts strong takedown defense, thereby controlling the initial phase of the fight.
However, after the intense first round, Magomedov visibly showed signs of fatigue, a stark contrast to his initial burst of energy. Strickland, known for his superior conditioning and unyielding forward movement, recognized this shift and began to take control. He systematically pressured a tiring Magomedov, backing him towards the cage. Strickland then landed a powerful right hand that dropped Magomedov, following up with relentless ground-and-pound to secure the come-from-behind knockout victory in the second round.
This pivotal win against Magomedov set the stage for Strickland`s next challenge. Just a few months later, he would go on to achieve one of the biggest upsets in UFC history, defeating Israel Adesanya by unanimous decision to capture the middleweight title, a fight where Strickland also managed to drop the champion early on.
As for Abus Magomedov, he initially didn`t live up to the high expectations set for him after the loss to Strickland. However, he has since found his footing in the UFC, securing three consecutive wins and recently defeating Michel Pereira by unanimous decision.
Strickland`s Recent Off-Octagon Incident
Looking ahead to 2025, Strickland`s career faces a new kind of uncertainty. Following two title losses to Dricus du Plessis, he is currently outside the immediate title picture. More recently, he has attracted attention for an incident outside professional competition that could lead to disciplinary action from the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
While cornering a teammate at a Tuff-N-Uff event, Strickland and fellow fighter Chris Curtis were involved in an altercation with Luis Hernandez, who had just won his bout. After exchanging heated words, Strickland reportedly charged into the cage and physically struck Hernandez before security intervened to remove him from the premises. Strickland has publicly maintained an unapologetic stance regarding his actions. The incident occurred at an event sanctioned by the NSAC, who are expected to review the matter and potentially impose penalties.
