Sean Strickland has launched an unprovoked verbal attack on Tom Aspinall, questioning the legitimacy of the champion’s recent no-contest and accusing him of “taking the way out”.
Speaking during a livestream with internet personality Adin Ross, Strickland turned his attention from sparring antics to Aspinall, who has faced criticism since his October no-contest with Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. The bout was stopped after a double eye poke left Aspinall unable to continue, despite medical reports later confirming serious injury.
Strickland was unconvinced. “Aspinall sucks, dude,” he said, before adding: “No, he took the way out. 100 percent.” He compared the situation to his own experience fighting Nassourdine Imavov, claiming he fought through significant eye damage.
Strickland has not competed since his February loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 312, where he was comprehensively beaten in their second title clash. He is set to return on 21 February, headlining UFC Houston against Anthony Hernandez, who enters the fight on an eight-bout winning streak.
A win could put Strickland back in the frame for a future title challenge — and potentially another high-profile rivalry — but for now his remarks have added fresh controversy around the UFC’s heavyweight champion.
