Sean Strickland`s return to the Octagon is currently on hold. Known for his outspoken nature, the former UFC Middleweight Champion recently garnered attention for his actions rather than his words at Tuff-N-Uff 145 last month.
During the event, Strickland and fellow UFC fighter Chris Curtis were cornering their teammate, Miles Hunsinger, in a bout against the undefeated Luis Hernandez. They were observed interacting verbally with Hernandez mid-fight.
Following his victory by submission over Hunsinger, Hernandez`s post-fight celebration included taunting Strickland and Curtis. This provocation led to Strickland and Curtis storming the cage, where Strickland then threw a punch at Hernandez.
Despite the physical altercation, Hernandez chose not to press charges and expressed no desire for the fighters to face penalties. Nevertheless, the Nevada commission appears to have taken a different stance.
Sean Strickland Receives Temporary Suspension for Post-Fight Altercation
Reports indicate that the Nevada Athletic Commission has issued a temporary suspension to Strickland for his unauthorized entry into the cage and subsequent swing at Hernandez during the Tuff-N-Uff 145 event.
This temporary suspension is anticipated to be extended following the commission`s hearing scheduled for Wednesday.
As long as this suspension remains in effect, Strickland will be barred from competing in the UFC.
Details regarding Strickland`s complete disciplinary action will be announced later. Despite his reputation for controversy, this marks the first disciplinary suspension of his UFC career.
Potential Israel Adesanya Rematch Now Uncertain for Strickland
Prior to this suspension by the Nevada commission, Strickland`s career trajectory was already facing uncertainty.
Known as ‘Tarzan,’ Strickland recently suffered two defeats to the reigning champion Dricus du Plessis, including a decisive loss in their UFC 312 rematch in February.
Meanwhile, his former opponent Israel Adesanya, whose last middleweight title reign was ended by Strickland in 2023, had shown significant interest in a rematch.
However, given this recent suspension and Adesanya`s hints during International Fight Week about potentially seeking other opponents, a Strickland vs. Adesanya middleweight bout now seems less probable.
Jack Thornley 
Neville Whittle