UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland faces the possibility of being stripped of his title amid an escalating conflict with the promotion, according to a report published Friday.
Strickland captured the belt with a split-decision victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 on May 9, 2026, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The win marked his first successful defense of the middleweight championship.
However, sources indicate the relationship between Strickland and UFC management has deteriorated significantly, leading to speculation that the organization may vacate the title. "They'll strip him," one insider said, suggesting the champion's reign could end without another fight.
The nature of the dispute remains unclear, but the situation has created uncertainty in the 185-pound division as the promotion considers its next steps.
