Sean Strickland post-fight brawl erupted after the former UFC middleweight champion ignited a violent altercation following Tuff-N-Uff 145 in Las Vegas on Sunday. The incident involved Strickland and fellow fighters confronting an opponent’s corner, creating a scene of confusion and unrest during the event.
How the Conflict Broke Out at Tuff-N-Uff 145
At Tuff-N-Uff 145, Sean Strickland and Chris Curtis targeted their teammate Miles Hunsinger, who was returning after a three-year break caused by a knockout defeat to Demarques Jackson at Eagle FC 44. The middleweight showdown between Hunsinger and Luis Hernandez began with an intense back-and-forth first round.
During the second round, tensions escalated when Hernandez engaged in heated exchanges with Hunsinger’s corner. After Hernandez secured a victory using a standing guillotine submission, he directed an obscene gesture toward Curtis and Strickland, who then rushed into the cage.
In the aftermath, Strickland delivered a forceful punch to Hernandez’s head, forcing security to intervene quickly and separate the fighters. The chaotic sequence led to Strickland’s immediate removal from the arena. Authorities and the UFC have yet to issue statements on the incident.
Strickland’s Complicated History Outside the Octagon
This recent event adds to Sean Strickland’s pattern of controversy beyond his UFC fights. He has frequently sparked disputes through provocative social media remarks and has been involved in various road rage incidents within Las Vegas. Such behavior has increased scrutiny on his public persona and conduct.
The Nevada State Athletic Commission, which oversees events like Tuff-N-Uff 145, may impose disciplinary actions on Strickland. Furthermore, criminal charges could be a possibility if Luis Hernandez pursues legal recourse following the assault.
Potential Consequences and UFC’s Response to the Incident
Following two consecutive title fight losses to current middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, Strickland had hoped for a UFC return to regain momentum. Between those losses, he achieved a decision win against Paulo Costa at UFC 302. However, the post-fight melee threatens to derail any near-term plans for his comeback.
UFC President Dana White is expected to address Strickland’s actions soon, having previously criticized the fighter’s conduct outside the Octagon. White’s comments might influence the UFC’s disciplinary measures or match-making decisions regarding Strickland’s future bouts.
Chris Curtis, who joined Strickland in the altercation, has also struggled recently and has not fought since suffering a knockout by a head kick in January. Curtis has only recorded one win in his last five fights.