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Sean Strickland On Turning Down UFC 302 Fight Vs. Top Contender

Originally posted on Ringside Intel | By Dana Becker | Last updated 4/9/24

Former UFC champion Sean Strickland has heard the rumors and reports of a fight at UFC 302.

And he is not planning on accepting.

Strickland took to social media to respond to a potential fight vs. Paulo Costa at June event in Newark, New Jersey. The card does not have a current main event booked.

“Out of curiosity, what do you guys think I was offered to fight Costa on 7 weeks notice?” Strickland asked. “Base contract.”

Followers tossed out numbers such as $500,000, $200,000 with another $200,000 to win and more.

“Way less,” Strickland said of the high-end number. “Close but less” he replied to the other.

He added that “it’s cut throat in here. 99 percent of UFC fighters will never see a million their entire career.”

Out of curiosity… What do you guys think I was offered to fight Costa on 7 weeks notice? Base contract…..
— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) April 9, 2024

Strickland commented on the difference between the UFC and other professional organizations such as NFL and NBA.

“You don’t leave this sport happy or well,” he said. “The pay gap just keeps getting wider.”

Here's the thing guys.

UFC isn't the NFL or the NBA it's absolutely cut throat. You don't leave this sport happy or well

If I fought Jake Paul 1. I'd murder him but 2. We would make millions.

Something you guys experience at your jobs. The pay gap just keeps getting wider
— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) April 9, 2024

Sean Strickland Not Planning A Return At UFC 302

For the 33-year-old from California, the return date just not seem to fit.

Strickland lost his title in his first defense this past January to Dricus du Plessis via split decision. The defeat snapped a three-fight win streak.

In September of last year, he topped Israel Adesanya to win his first UFC championship.

As for Costa, he is just 1-3 in his last four with losses to Robert Whittaker, Marvin Vettori and Adesanya. He fought for the title vs. Adesanya in 2020 after winning his first 13 pro bouts.

This article first appeared on Ringside Intel and was syndicated with permission.

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