Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen back Sean Strickland amid UFC 312 backlash
Cormier, Sonnen Defend Strickland
The MMA world is no stranger to controversy, especially when it comes to outspoken fighters like Sean Strickland. The former UFC middleweight champion has once again found himself at the center of a debate, drawing criticism for his recent comments and behavior ahead of UFC 312. However, two of the sport’s biggest voicesDaniel Cormier and Chael Sonnenhave stepped in to defend Strickland against the backlash.
Strickland Stirs the PotAgain
If there’s one thing predictable about Sean Strickland, it’s that he’ll always say what’s on his mind, no matter how divisive. The former champion has made a name for himself as one of the most unfiltered personalities in the UFC, often speaking without a filter during interviews, press conferences, and even online.
His latest comments, though, have rubbed some fans and analysts the wrong way. Strickland, known just as much for his brash personality as his fighting skills, hasn’t backed down despite the mounting criticism.
Cormier Calls for Perspective
Former UFC double champion and current commentator Daniel Cormier weighed in on the controversy, offering a more measured take. Speaking on his podcast, Cormier urged fans to consider the nature of the fight game before rushing to condemn Strickland.
“Sean Strickland is who he is. You’re not always going to like what he says, but he’s not pretending to be something he’s not,” Cormier stated. “This is a guy who’s lived a hard life, fought his way to the top, and speaks his truthwhether you like it or not.”
While Cormier admitted that not everything that comes out of Strickland’s mouth is palatable, he also pointed out that fightersespecially in the UFCaren’t politicians or role models in the traditional sense.
Chael Sonnen: “Let the Man Be Himself”
Nobody in MMA media embraces controversy quite like Chael Sonnen, so it’s no surprise that the former UFC star came to Strickland’s defense.
On his YouTube channel, Sonnen dismissed the backlash as another example of fans and media cherry-picking which fighters they allow to speak freely.
“The UFC sells fights, and guess what? Sean Strickland sells fights. He doesn’t play by the rules of political correctness, and that’s exactly why people love himor hate him,” Sonnen explained. “If you don’t like what he’s saying, fine. But let’s not pretend that this is anything new.”
Sonnen went on to argue that the UFC thrives on controversy, and attempting to police the way fighters express themselves is an uphill battle.
Dividing the Fight Community
Unsurprisingly, Strickland’s latest comments (and the responses from Cormier and Sonnen) have split the MMA community in two. Some fans insist that Strickland’s words have gone too far, while others believe he’s simply staying true to himself. The debate has spilled over onto social media, where battles are raging in both fighter and fan circles.
- Supporters argue that UFC fighters should be allowed to speak their minds, regardless of how controversial their statements are.
- Critics say that Strickland’s reckless rhetoric damages the sport’s image and crosses ethical lines.
Despite the uproar, Strickland has remained unapologeticas he always does.
Should the UFC Step In?
With every controversy surrounding a fighter’s words or behavior, the same question arises: Should the UFC take action?
So far, Dana White and company have remained relatively hands-off when it comes to censoring fighters outside of serious breaches of conduct. Speaking upno matter how outrageous the statementis often seen as part of the promotion’s DNA.
However, in a time when the sport is growing and appealing to broader audiences, the pressure to regulate fighter speech may grow stronger.
Final Round: Will Strickland Change?
Will Sean Strickland tone it down? History suggests not a chance. He’ll continue speaking his mind, generating controversy, andmore importantlygaining attention.
Regardless of personal opinions on Strickland, his ability to stay in the headlines is undeniable. Whether that works for or against him in the long run remains to be seen.
But for now, with Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen in his corner, it’s clear he’s not backing downnor losing support from key figures in the sport.
What’s Your Take?
Is Sean Strickland the unapologetic voice the UFC needs, or is he pushing the limits too far? Drop your thoughts in the comments!