BREAKING: Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has been suspended for six months by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) following a physical altercation at a June MMA event. The NSAC confirmed the suspension and a $5,000 fine during its monthly meeting on Thursday.
The suspension is effective retroactively from the date of the incident, which occurred on June 29, 2023, at a Tuff-N-Uff event in Las Vegas. Strickland, 34, can reduce his suspension to 4.5 months by completing an anger management course. His suspension will officially end on December 29, 2023.
Strickland’s involvement stemmed from a heated moment after a fight where his trainee, Miles Hunsinger, lost to Luis Hernandez. Following the match, Hernandez taunted Hunsinger’s corner, prompting a response from Strickland and fellow UFC fighter Chris Curtis. Video footage captured Strickland throwing punches at Hernandez, escalating the situation significantly.
In addition to Strickland’s punishment, Curtis was also fined $2,500 for his role in the altercation. Strickland, who last fought in February against then-champion Dricus Du Plessis, has no scheduled bouts at this time, adding uncertainty to his competitive future.
The repercussions of this incident highlight ongoing challenges within the sport regarding athlete conduct and the management of emotions post-fight. As the MMA community reacts to this news, fans and fighters alike will be watching closely to see how Strickland navigates this suspension and whether he can return to form after completing the necessary requirements.
Stay tuned for further updates on Strickland’s path back to the octagon.