In his first fight back since losing his middleweight championship in controversial fashion, returned with a victory at against via split decision. Strickland made it known in his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan that he wants a title shot next. goes through five possible opponents Strickland could face next.
At UFC 297, Sean Strickland lost his UFC middleweight title to in what was an incredible fight, but the result was controversial. Some people believed that Strickland was robbed and did not deserve to lose his belt, but it was the South African who came out of UFC 297 as the new UFC middleweight champion. Strickland has made it clear in many interviews and social media posts since the fight happened that he wants to run it back with Du Plessis and reclaim the title he never felt he lost.
A big talking point going into Strickland vs Costa at UFC 302 was where Strickland goes after this fight. It has been rumoured for months that Du Plessis' first title defence will come against in Perth, Australia this summer. Considering Strickland lost to Du Plessis in very controversial fashion and Adesanya is the man who he comfortably beat to win the title, there is some natural criticism around the rumours of Du Plessis vs Adesanya taking place.
With Strickland now coming off a win and being such a huge star, it may be possible that the UFC puts their plans for Du Plessis vs Adesanya on hold and chooses to give Strickland his rematch this summer. Another possible opponent for Str.