Sean Strickland to Challenge Former Rival Belal Muhammad
After parting ways with the heavyweight title in his bout against Dricus Du Plessis last February, Sean Strickland is now eyeing the chance to engage in a decisive showdown with Belal Muhammad. Strickland, once an established titleholder in his division, is keen on resolving their long-standing rivalry that has been brewing for over a year. Muhammad, a former welterweight champion himself, handed over his title to Jack Della Maddalena in the recent UFC 315 event that unfurled this month.
In the MMA world, reputations of Strickland (holding an MMA record of 29-7 and UFC record of 16-7) and Muhammad (who boasts of an MMA track record of 24-4 and a UFC history of 15-4) started embroiling in an ever-increasing whirlpool of rivalry. Now, neither of them is tethered to a divisional title which provides Strickland a platform to challenge Muhammad into a fight at the 185 pounds division to mutually work out their disagreement.
Strickland presents this potential duel with Muhammad as an enjoyable tussle. He presents it with a touch of humor as well as a certain degree of seriousness saying – ‘Taking up the fight with Muhammad will indeed be exciting.’ Addressing Muhammad directly, he added – ‘Time to man up. Stand for all the words you’ve thrown around.’, clearly indicating that he wishes to settle their pending conflict in the ring.
The rivalry has reached an interesting impasse with both fighters devoid of their belts. Each experiencing their own kinds of loss, Strickland proposes that the logical step forward now is for them to accept the challenge and engage in the anticipated championship fight.
In the past, whispers circulated claiming the next competitor for Strickland was Israel Adesanya. However, Strickland chose to dismiss these rumors opting instead to concentrate on his desired matchup with Muhammad. He also pointed out a declined bout offer with Caio Borralho, mutual from both ends, to further highlight his focus on engaging with Muhammad in the ring.
Strickland firmly believes that, given the facts and their competitive history, embarking on a fight with Muhammad seems to be the most pragmatic and thrilling progression for both. He doesn’t shy away from underpinning his eagerness to see Muhammad accept this challenge by promptly challenging him about his claims on social media.
Expanding on his thoughts, Strickland added, ‘Muhammad, you’ve been fairly vocal on Instagram, loudly proclaiming your intentions to fight me. Well, here’s your opportunity to rise to the challenge.’, openly daring Muhammad to make good on his digital assertions.
In a concluding remark, Strickland encouraged to ‘Fight for Palestine.’ – a statement echoing his respect and adding an intriguing socio-political dimension to the potential fight. According to Strickland, the battle with Muhammad would provide a mighty appealing and entertaining spectacle for the fans.
