Jun 1, 2024; Newark, New Jersey, USA; Sean Strickland (red gloves)celebrates defeating Paulo Costa (blue gloves) during UFC 302 at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Watch: UFC's Sean Strickland Wrestles With NFL Offensive Lineman Dylan Fairchild

Originally posted on Georgia Bulldogs on SI
By Christian Kirby | Last updated Jun 29, 2025 11:36 AM ET

Watch as UFC fighter Sean Strickland wrestles with Cincinnati Bengals offensive lineman Dylan Fairchild.

The NFL season is fast approaching as players begin training regimens to prepare for the grueling regular season slate. While different athletes have multiple ways of training, the most unique methods this year may belong to a handful of NFL offensive linemen.

UFC Middleweight and former champion Sean Strickland is reportedly training with a handful of NFL players during the offseason, utilizing wrestling skills to likely increase hand-fighting techniques. A video of the former champion sparring with Cincinnati Bengals lineman Dylan Fairchild was recently released on social media.

Former Georgia offensive lineman Dylan Fairchild vs Sean Strickland pic.twitter.com/91WkprJx8T
— Radi Nabulsi (@RadiNabulsi) June 29, 2025

In the video, Fairchild and Strickland engaged in a friendly sparring session where each athlete utilized different wrestling techniques. Fairchild, a more-than-300-pound lineman, possessed a clear height and weight advantage; however, Strickland's professional training allowed him to hold his own.

Although Fairchild did not wrestle at the collegiate level, the offensive lineman does have a background in the sport as he competed for a Class 7-A wrestling title for the state of Georgia during his high school career. His wrestling skills likely resulted in his prolific career with the Georgia Bulldogs.

Fairchild is set to begin his rookie season with the Bengals on Sunday, September 7th, against the Cleveland Browns. Kickoff for this game is scheduled for 1 p.m. and will be aired on FOX. Strickland currently does not have a fight scheduled, but remains an active member of the UFC's roster.

This article first appeared on Georgia Bulldogs on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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