Earlier today, reports surfaced that Sean Strickland signed a fresh six-fight deal before facing Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 and that Strickland’s claims that the UFC brass have been lowballing him are not really true, as he earned over $1 million for the Chimaev outing.

Now, Strickland has alleged that the company forced him to sign a six-fight deal to get the title shot. While responding to a fan on X, who asked Strickland why he signed the new contract if he felt lowballed, the current and two-time UFC middleweight champion alleged:

“Sign this, or we won’t do this lol. They act like you have any power in this sport.”

Check out Sean Strickland’s comments below:

“Tarzan” bounced back early this year by stopping the surging Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston. After the impressive knockout win, he earned another title shot right away. And at UFC 328, he dethroned “Borz” by split decision.

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – MAY 09: (R-L) Sean Strickland punches Khamzat Chimaev of Russia in the UFC middleweight championship fight during the UFC 328 event at Prudential Center on May 09, 2026 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Strickland is now expected to defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov in a rematch. “The Sniper” is frustrated by the delay and has also said he will pay $500k to the American if he beats him again.

“😂😂😂 If it’s really about money, I’ll put $500K of my own money on the line if you beat me in January @SStricklandMMA putting this on record If you still don’t take it, then you’re just scared. I’ll handle you outside. @ufc THIS is your champ? Come on STRIP HIM #NoHappyEnding”

Check out Nassourdine Imavov’s comments below:

Sean Strickland wants to box, says he is not interested in MMA any longer

Sean Strickland does not seem game to run it back with Nassourdine Imavov. Over the past few days, he has offered several reasons for avoiding the matchup, including low pay and claims that he is done with MMA. The former UFC champion has also suggested boxing as his next move, as it pays more and is less physically taxing.

Check out Sean Strickland’s comments below:

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.