Sean Strickland has launched an unprovoked verbal attack on UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall during a livestream appearance with internet personality Adin Ross.
Fresh from a controversial no-contest against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321 in October, Aspinall has faced criticism after the bout was stopped due to a double eye poke. Although medical reports later confirmed significant damage to his eye, some fans questioned whether the champion could have continued.
Strickland made it clear he was unconvinced. “Aspinall sucks, dude,” he said on the stream. When asked if he believed the eye injury was legitimate, Strickland replied: “No, he took the way out. One hundred percent.” He compared the situation to his own experience fighting Nassourdine Imavov, claiming he continued despite serious eye damage.
The comments were notable given that Aspinall and Strickland have no obvious rivalry, making the criticism appear entirely unsolicited.
Strickland, meanwhile, is looking to rebound from a tough year. He has not fought since losing a one-sided decision to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 312 in February, marking his second failed bid for the middleweight title.
The former champion is scheduled to headline UFC Houston on February 21 against Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez, who enters the bout on an eight-fight UFC winning streak. A victory could put Strickland back into contention — and potentially set up another title clash down the line.
