Sean Strickland dismisses Shara Bullet callout after UFC Baku

Sean Strickland has little interest in Sharabutdin Magomedov's recent callout.

Magomedov came from behind to defeat Strickland's training partner Michel Pereira by unanimous decision at UFC Baku last weekend. The champion had served as a sparring partner ahead of the bout, mimicking Magomedov's unorthodox style to help Pereira prepare, per Sherdog. Since the win, the Dagestani has turned his attention to Strickland directly, calling the titleholder a "domestic champion" who refuses to defend the belt outside U.S. borders and claiming Strickland will duck him if a fight can't be made stateside.

Strickland responds on social media

The middleweight champion posted a brief reply on X dismissing the challenge. "It makes me laugh. Bro you fought my teammate... There are levels to this haha," Strickland wrote. The champion won the 185-pound strap for a second time last month with an upset stoppage of Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328.

Magomedov holds a 17-1 record and has won six straight inside the Octagon since his lone career loss to Michael Page. The unranked contender has yet to crack the top fifteen at middleweight.

Strickland is expected to defend the title later this year, though no opponent or venue has been confirmed.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Sean Strickland responds to 'Shara Bullet' rant: 'It makes me laugh'