In the lead-up to UFC 293, Sean Strickland isn’t mincing words when it comes to his thoughts on Israel Adesanya. As the two prepare to clash in Australia, Strickland has unleashed a verbal barrage against the reigning UFC middleweight champion, dubbing him a “cringe-lord” who rubs everyone the wrong way.
Strickland’s confidence in winning over the crowd Down Under stems from his disdain for Adesanya’s persona both inside and outside the Octagon. Whether it’s Adesanya’s remarks in interviews, pre-fight press conferences, or even his unconventional nail-painting choice, Strickland makes it clear that he doesn’t like what Adesanya represents – and he believes he’s not alone in this sentiment.
“Nobody likes f****** Izzy. He’s a f****** cringe-lord,” Strickland bluntly stated during a media day event for UFC 293. “Everything he does just makes you f****** cringe. Did he really say that? Is he really stirring the pot with Dricus [Du Plessis] right now? How does he think this will play out? When someone’s that cringe-worthy, it’s easy to poke fun at them.”
Strickland doesn’t hold back, emphasizing his aversion to Adesanya, which he describes as enough to make him “want to take a shower” just thinking about it.
Although the fight is still a few days away, Strickland and Adesanya will engage in a pre-fight press conference on Thursday. The anticipation for their verbal showdown is palpable, given the sparks that flew during their initial encounter at the UFC 276 pre-fight presser.
As thrilling as it might be for Strickland to exchange words with Adesanya on stage, he makes it clear that the ultimate goal is the fight itself. Strickland’s focus remains fixed on delivering a showdown that fans won’t forget.
“It’s going to be an all-out war,” Strickland declares. “I might talk a lot, but people tend to forget how good of a fighter I am. We’ll see it on Sunday. To the very end. My mouth may run, but don’t forget, I can fight.”
When discussing his game plan, Strickland reveals that he has dedicated a significant portion of his training camp to wrestling and grappling, intending to use these skills against Adesanya, a predominantly striking-based fighter. However, Strickland also acknowledges that despite his efforts, his fights tend to devolve into slugfests.
“Here’s the deal, guys – I’ve been grinding in wrestling,” Strickland admits. “But I did the same with Alex [Pereira]. The problem is, you get in there, and it’s like your competitive spirit takes over, and it turns into a boxing match. Maybe I’ll try to embrace the complete MMA fighter within me, but no guarantees.”
Even if Strickland chooses to wrestle, he’s well aware that Adesanya won’t make it easy for him.
“When you’re facing a guy like that, the guy who dances around and plays games, it’s tough to shoot for takedowns,” Strickland explains. “You’ll have to go toe-to-toe, man-to-man, and turn it into an all-out battle.”
Strickland is poised for an upset if he manages to defeat Adesanya, who is currently a 6-to-1 favorite according to oddsmakers. While winning the UFC middleweight title would be a significant achievement, Strickland is more focused on the financial rewards of the fight. He believes that generating buzz for the pay-per-view event will significantly boost his bank account.
“For me, it means a lot, but it’s just a piece of metal,” Strickland reflects on the UFC title. “I’m in it for the paycheck. I love this sport. Having a metal belt around my waist doesn’t define me, make me who I am, or bring me happiness. It would be nice, but in the end, it’s just a fight. It’s all in good fun.”
