Sean Strickland Claims UFC Required New Contract for Title Fight

Sean Strickland has stated that the UFC mandated the signing of a new six-fight contract as a condition for his title fight against Khamzat Chimaev on May 9. Strickland secured victory in that match by split decision at UFC 328, earning him the title of two-time middleweight champion.

The 35-year-old fighter revealed that the reported contract included a payment exceeding $1 million for the Chimaev fight. He implied that the UFC's ultimatum left him with little choice, suggesting that the title shot was contingent on signing the contract.

While the UFC has not verified the specifics of the contract, if the Chimaev fight is counted as one of the six bouts, Strickland would have five remaining. He has expressed intentions to vacate his title, potentially transition to light heavyweight, and explore boxing opportunities against Jake Paul or other opponents.