A two-weight champion recently shared a full-circle story involving former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland.
Strickland could not attend UFC 323 earlier this month due to a suspension that prevented him from fighting. His break from the Octagon ends next year when he faces Anthony Hernandez in Houston, Texas, on February 21.
The fighter has a reputation for loving to spar, as footage recently showed him taking on three opponents at once. One of the many fighters he trained with found their session with Strickland to be a pivotal moment in their career.
Fleury’s pivotal injury leads to success
Will Fleury recently reunited with Strickland after a key moment in his career. Fleury earned praise from Conor McGregor after claiming two weight titles within a year of signing with OKTAGON. Just two weeks before his April 2024 debut, Fleury injured his hand while sparring with Strickland in Las Vegas. He chose to fight despite the injury and secured a submission win, which set him on the remarkable path he follows today.
Working with Johnny Walker brought Fleury back to Las Vegas, where he met Strickland for the first time since the injury. Fleury also trained with Ateba Gautier ahead of his title defense at OKTAGON 81 on December 28. He spoke about the reunion in a recent interview with Bloody Elbow.
“We went down to the gym and did a couple of rounds together. Right after, he said, ‘Ah man, it’s great to have you back,’ and we shared a hug,” Fleury recalled. “It’s crazy how this all worked out. I came back a year and a half later as a double champ.”
Gratitude for Strickland’s support
The 36-year-old praised Strickland for helping him after the injury. He remembered how happy Strickland was when he decided to fight despite the hand injury. “To have him support me over that time meant a lot. It was a cool buzz, and I felt proud,” Fleury said.
Fleury’s upcoming challenge
In recent years, Fleury has been motivated to show his abilities, finally getting the opportunities he deserves. While he never fought in the UFC, beating a former UFC fighter is a major achievement for the defending champion.
This Sunday at the O2 Arena in Prague, Fleury will face former UFC heavyweight Martin Buday. Buday recorded a 7-1 run in the promotion before departing controversially earlier this year.
