Prominent MMA Coach Says Sean Strickland Could Make $15 Million by Leaving UFC for Boxing

Sean Strickland improved his professional record to 31-7 by reclaiming the middleweight title with a split-decision win over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328. While fans expected a title defense before the year ends, "Tarzan" entered a contract dispute with the promotion. 

He has threatened to leave the UFC for a lucrative boxing career, even suggesting he might move to light heavyweight to quickly finish the five fights remaining on his deal. Amid this drama, a $15 million figure has become attached to his potential exit, matching the reported Zuffa Boxing deal for Conor Benn that Strickland has repeatedly cited in his public complaints.

Ray Longo Calls Sean Strickland's Boxing Move a No-Brainer

Prominent MMA coach Ray Longo recently discussed Sean Strickland's ongoing pay dispute on the Anik and Florian Podcast, questioning why UFC fighters accept punishing fights while boxers collect huge purses. 

Speaking on Strickland's personality, Longo said, "When he talks, I do believe there's a sense of honesty... I don't think he's a bullsh*t artist. So I hope he never goes that route, because when he speaks, I do listen... And, you know, let him go box for $15 million."

He claimed that the physical difference between the sports makes boxing an obvious choice for the champion, adding, "You got guys in your own organization that are killing each other. You know, the training is totally different. It takes a way bigger toll on your body... I think Strickland can go in there and box 12 rounds like it's nothing… And I think for him, because of the way he trains, it's a no-brainer."

Sean Strickland Takes to Social Media to Vent Over UFC Due to Pay Scale

Strickland aired his frustration on X, writing that he is "kinda over it" unless conditions change. To highlight his frustration, he pointed to Conor McGregor reportedly making $30 million for his 69-second loss to Max Holloway at UFC 329. In his posts, he also directly targeted Jake Paul as a potential boxing opponent once he completes his UFC obligations. 

Paul also seems ready to welcome Strickland’s decision, replying on X, "Sean Strickland I see your texts but are you out of contract? Tell your “promoter” to call MVP."

Nassourdine Imavov suffers the most from these financial disagreements. The UFC moved in a different direction for UFC 335 after contract talks fell through, leaving championship plans on hold. Meanwhile, Strickland also called out cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, who fights under Dana White’s new Zuffa Boxing promotion. 

Dana White Won't Permit UFC Competitors to Box During Promotional Contracts

"Tarzan" lands 5.98 significant strikes per minute at 42 percent accuracy and averages just 0.66 takedowns per 15 minutes. His volume-striking style fits boxing well, but contract issues block the move because Zuffa Boxing is a UFC affiliate.

Furthermore, vacating the belt would strip Nassourdine Imavov of his guaranteed title shot. Dana White bluntly stated that he will not allow active UFC fighters to pursue boxing while under contract. While Strickland says he will sort it out soon, the debate will continue until he makes a move.