UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland is threatening to blow up his title reign over a heated pay dispute with the promotion. Airing his grievances on X, Strickland (31-7) openly vented about fighter compensation, explicitly comparing his earnings to the $30 million paydays of Conor McGregor and top-tier celebrity boxers. “Tarzan” hinted heavily at vacating his 185-pound crown and moving up to light heavyweight (205 lbs) to speed-run the remainder of his UFC contract.
His ultimate goal? A massive crossover payday against Jake Paul. While a title defense against top contender Nassourdine Imavov was on the horizon following Strickland’s split-decision win over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328, the champion now seems more focused on securing a lucrative “bag” outside the Octagon than defending his belt.
