Daniel Cormier Doesn’t Want to See Sean Strickland Walk Away From the UFC
Daniel Cormier backs Sean Strickland amid his UFC pay dispute, praising the middleweight champion’s rise and hoping he stays.
Daniel Cormier believes that the UFC would lose more than just a champion if Sean Strickland were to walk away from the promotion. The outspoken middleweight has been vocal about his frustrations over fighter pay, raising questions about his future and whether he might explore options beyond the Octagon. However, Cormier is holding out hope that Strickland's story in the UFC is far from over.
Speaking about the situation in a clip shared by Fighters Only, the former two-division champion made it clear that Strickland’s personality should not overshadow his accomplishments inside the cage.
“We don't want to see Sean Strickland go,” Cormier said. “No matter what you feel about Sean Strickland, the character, the personality... the one thing you have to respect is how great a fighter he is, and how unexpected his run to become a two-time UFC champion has been.”
Cormier Highlights Strickland’s Unexpected Championship Journey
Strickland's rise to the top has certainly been anything but conventional. Known for his bold personality and knack for speaking his mind, the American fighter has carved out a reputation that extends well beyond his performances inside the cage.
His fighting career has also brought some impressive results. Strickland first captured the UFC middleweight title at UFC 293 in September 2023 by taking down Israel Adesanya. Although he later lost the belt to Dricus du Plessis, he didn't allow that setback to hold him back. He fought his way back into the championship contention and reclaimed the title with a split-decision win over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 238 in May 2026.
That journey is part of what makes Cormier reluctant to see him leave.
Fighter Pay Dispute Raises Questions About Strickland’s Future
Strickland's recent frustration stems from his worries regarding UFC compensation. He has openly questioned the pay offered for a potential title defense against Nassourdine Imavov and hinted that boxing might provide him with more lucrative options.
His comments have put his immediate UFC future in doubt, although no confirmed departure has been announced.
Cormier acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the situation, adding: “I don't know how this plays out but I'm excited to see what happens.” For now, Strickland’s next steps remain unclear. Whether the UFC can strike a deal with its outspoken champion may determine if fans get to see another chapter of his career inside the Octagon.
