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Sean Strickland handed suspension following post-fight brawl

Originally posted on MMA Weekly | By Joshua Ryan | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 11:27 AM ET

Despite being one of the best middleweight fighters in the world, Sean Strickland can be a little unpredictable outside of the cage, which has guided him into many mishaps and altercations.

As his comments and unapologetic behavior suggests, Strickland is a brash competitor who isn't afraid to speak his mind, no matter how crude. While his words have often gotten him into trouble, his most recent controversial involvement was a physical brawl.

Sean Strickland was in the coaches corner as his teammates suffered a standing guillotine choke loss to Luis Hernandez at Tuff-N-Uff 145. Instead of taking the defeat and subsequent celebratory taunt from Hernandez gracefully, Strickland and long-time friend Chris Curtis chose to storm the cage.

The former UFC middleweight champion felt disrespected by the fighter's gesture and opted to settle their differences there and then.

Sean Strickland and Chris Curtis just went crazy on Luis Hernandez for beating their teammate. #MMA

pic.twitter.com/tUrWnF6kqz
— Verdict (@VerdictMMA) June 29, 2025

The events led to many believing a punishment would befall Sean Strickland, and that now seems to be the case.

According to reports, Strickland has been handed a temporary suspension for his actions late last month.

There is expectation that his suspension will be extended at the coming commission hearing, scheduled for Wednesday.

Sean Strickland is within touching distance of another shot at UFC gold, currently sitting at #2 in the division.

While he'll be wanting to recapture his throne and reign over the middleweights once again, the punishment from his brawl will prevent Strickland from competing inside the octagon.

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Alongside a potential prolonged stay on the sidelines, the 34-year-old could also be hit with a fine.

The only saving grace for Strickland is Luis Hernandez's reaction to the altercation.

Hernandez, who had every right to be furious at Strickland for the attack, instead brushed their problems aside. The undefeated 185er insisted he has no problems with anyone at Xtreme Couture and hopes the commission doesn't punish those involved in the brawl.

This article first appeared on MMA Weekly and was syndicated with permission.

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