Strickland Unleashes Fury: Threatens Chimaev with a Gun and Questions Dana White

The former UFC 328 middleweight champion heats up the fight with incendiary statements and a history of controversy.

The atmosphere prior to UFC 328, scheduled for May 9 in Newark, has been filled with palpable tension, largely thanks to Sean Strickland's explosive statements. The former American middleweight champion, known for his excessive frankness, has starred in a press conference that has been described as “wild,” further raising expectations for an already highly anticipated event.

The title showdown against Chechen Khamzat Chimaev is shaping up to be a high-voltage duel, and the mixed martial arts promoter has responded by announcing reinforced security measures, aimed at maintaining order in the vicinity of both contenders during the tense week leading up to the fight.

The effectiveness of these measures is in question for many, especially after Strickland's latest controversial statements. The American fighter has even threatened to use his firearm against Chimaev and his team if they approach him en masse at any time during the week of the event.

“What I'm going to do is take out my gun and shoot him,” Strickland told reporters, responding to Chimaev's estimates that he would avoid a direct confrontation if he encountered him and his entourage. “If he wanted to settle our differences like a man… but if he shows up with three fucking Chechen fuckgoats who don't speak English, I'll take out my gun and shoot you all,” added the 35-year-old Californian, whose words resonated loudly in the room.

Strickland, a media figure for his usual verbal slips and his ability to openly criticize anyone, held the middleweight title during the last quarter of 2023, after his victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in Sydney. Subsequently, he lost the belt to Dricus du Plessis, who defeated him twice throughout 2024 and 2025. After his outstanding performance against Anthony Hernandez on February 21, Strickland faces a second opportunity to reconquer the title against the same rival who took the championship from the former South African champion.

The American did not limit himself to throwing darts at his opponent. During his interaction with the media, he also directed harsh criticism towards Dana White, the top leader of the UFC. “He's a sociopath. Let's be honest. The guy would love to see some bastard get murdered, he's a sick lunatic, come on, don't you all agree?” Strickland said, revealing his perception of White's figure.

Despite these controversies and unconventional statements, Strickland maintains the endorsement of the leading mixed martial arts promoter, thus retaining a platform to express his opinions. His interventions often include sexist, racist comments that incite violence among his followers, which generates a constant debate about his public figure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Sean Strickland?
Sean Strickland is an American mixed martial arts fighter, former UFC middleweight champion.
Who will Sean Strickland fight at UFC 328?
He will fight Khamzat Chimaev for the middleweight title.
When and where will UFC 328 be held?
The event will take place on May 9 in Newark.
What controversy surrounds Sean Strickland?
He has made inflammatory statements, including gun threats and criticism of Dana White.
Have you been a UFC champion before?
Yes, he was middleweight champion until the end of 2023.
Who took the middleweight title from Sean Strickland?
Dricus du Plessis defeated him twice.
What security measures has the UFC announced for the event?
Additional security measures have been announced to control both corners.
How old is Sean Strickland?
He is 35 years old.
Where is Sean Strickland originally from?
He is from Anaheim, California.
What is said about Strickland's statements towards Dana White?
Strickland has called him a “sociopath” and a “sick lunatic.”