Sean Strickland firmly believes he deserves an immediate rematch with UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis.
Following his loss of the title in a closely contested split decision at January’s UFC 297 main event in Toronto, Strickland (28-6 MMA, 15-6 UFC) is eager for the opportunity to face Du Plessis (21-2 MMA, 7-0 UFC) once more, asserting his claim as the most deserving contender in the division.
Taking to social media on Wednesday to express his sentiments, Strickland highlighted his perspective on the matter:
“You know I don’t care about fight politics or a belt but it makes me laugh they give Izzy a rematch to Alex after getting slept.. I lost a close decision that Dana himself thought I won. Everyone did.. The stats did. That needs to be run back..”
UFC CEO Dana White echoed similar sentiments during the UFC 297 post-fight press conference, revealing that he had the Strickland vs. Du Plessis fight scored tied 2-2 going into the fifth round, which he ultimately awarded to Strickland.
Despite Strickland’s fervent wish, its realization appears uncertain. The UFC had attempted to arrange a matchup between Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya for the main event of UFC 300 in April. Although the bout didn’t come to fruition, indications suggest that this remains the planned next title bout in the 185-pound division.
