A two-weight champion recently shared a story about former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland that highlighted resilience and support.
Strickland could not attend UFC 323 earlier this month because a suspension kept him out of action. His break from the Octagon ends next year when he faces Anthony Hernandez in Houston, Texas, on February 21.
Known for his love of sparring, Strickland recently appeared in footage taking on three opponents at once. One fighter, in particular, found a session with him to be a turning point in their career.
A pivotal injury shapes Fleury’s path
Will Fleury reunited with Strickland after a key moment in his journey. Fleury earned praise from Conor McGregor after claiming two weight titles within a year of joining OKTAGON. Just two weeks before his April 2024 debut, Fleury injured his hand sparring with Strickland in Las Vegas. He chose to fight despite the injury and achieved a submission victory, setting the course for his current success.
Working with Johnny Walker brought Fleury back to Las Vegas, where he met Strickland for the first time since the injury. Fleury also trained with Ateba Gautier ahead of his title defense at OKTAGON 81 on December 28. He shared his thoughts in a recent interview with Bloody Elbow.
“We went down to the gym and did a couple of rounds together. Right after, he said, ‘Ah man, it’s great to have you back,’ and we shared a hug,” Fleury said. “It’s crazy how this all worked out. I came back a year and a half later as a double champ.”
Gratitude for unwavering support
The 36-year-old praised Strickland for supporting him after the injury. He recalled how happy Strickland was when he decided to fight despite his hand. “To have him support me over that time meant a lot. It was a cool buzz, and I felt proud,” Fleury said.
Fleury faces a former UFC heavyweight
In recent years, Fleury has focused on proving his abilities, finally receiving the opportunities he deserves. Though he never competed in the UFC, defeating a former UFC fighter remains a major milestone.
This Sunday, at the O2 Arena in Prague, Fleury will face former UFC heavyweight Martin Buday. Buday achieved a 7-1 record in the promotion before leaving under controversial circumstances earlier this year.
