Sean Strickland suspended for six months after assaulting a fighter at an event; fine exceeds R$28

Fighter invaded the cage after a friend's defeat and punched his rival; sentence could be reduced with anger management course

Sean Strickland is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

Sean Strickland He is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) announced on Thursday (21) the suspension of Sean Strickland for six months, in addition to imposing a fine of US$5 (approximately R$28) on the former UFC middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg). The punishment is a consequence of the incident that occurred on June 29, during the Tuff-N-Uff 145 event, in Las Vegas (USA), when the American invaded the cage and assaulted a fighter.

At the time, Strickland was acting as the cornerman for his friend and training partner Miles Hunsinger, who had been defeated by Luis Hernandez via standing guillotine. After the victory, Hernandez celebrated with a provocative gesture toward his rival's corner.

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The reaction was immediate. Strickland entered the cage and punched the winning athlete, while the fellow UFC middleweight, Chris Curtis, climbed the structure, but did not attack the opponent.

The action drew a strong reprimand from the NSAC. In addition to the fine and suspension until December 29, 2025, Sean could have his sentence reduced to four months if he completes an anger management course approved by the commission. The decision was unanimous among the commissioners, who highlighted the former champion's cooperation in the process and recognized the seriousness of the offense.

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Curtis, in turn, received a more lenient punishment: a $2.500 fine, payment of legal costs and only a formal warning, without suspension.

As a result, Strickland will be unable to compete until the end of the year, unless he chooses to have his sentence reduced by completing the course. The American lost his UFC middleweight belt to Dricus Du Plessis in January.

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