Sean Strickland’s impressive victory over Paulo Costa at UFC 302 has solidified his position as a top contender in the middleweight division. Strickland’s dominant performance and his call for a title shot have set the stage for several potential matchups. Here are three possible fights for Strickland next:
1. Winner of Jared Cannonier vs. Nassourdine Imavov
Overview:
Jared Cannonier and Nassourdine Imavov are set to face each other, with the winner likely positioning themselves as a top contender in the middleweight division. Strickland has history with both fighters, having lost to Cannonier via split decision and defeated Imavov in a light heavyweight bout on short notice.
Why This Fight Makes Sense:
Rematch Potential: A rematch with either Cannonier or Imavov would generate interest, given Strickland’s past encounters with both.
Number One Contender Fight: The winner of Cannonier vs. Imavov would make a compelling opponent for Strickland in a potential number one contender fight.
Recent Form: Strickland’s victory over Costa and the winner of Cannonier vs. Imavov could set up a high-stakes bout to determine the next title challenger.
Potential Timing and Location:
Late 2024: This fight could be scheduled for UFC 306, UFC 307, or UFC 308, depending on the recovery and readiness of the fighters involved.
2. Winner of Khamzat Chimaev vs. Robert Whittaker
Overview:
Khamzat Chimaev and Robert Whittaker are headlining the UFC’s debut in Saudi Arabia in a high-stakes matchup. The winner is expected to face the victor of the potential middleweight title fight between Israel Adesanya and Dricus du Plessis.
Why This Fight Makes Sense:
High Profile Matchup: Both Chimaev and Whittaker are elite fighters, and a bout with Strickland would be a marquee event.
Interim Title Possibility: If the winner of Adesanya vs. du Plessis requires time off, an interim title fight between Strickland and the winner of Chimaev vs. Whittaker could be a logical step.
Stylistic Matchup: Strickland’s pressure fighting against Whittaker’s explosive style or Chimaev’s wrestling prowess would be intriguing matchups.
Potential Timing and Location:
UFC 308 or Later: Depending on the outcomes and recovery times, this fight could take place at UFC 308 or shortly thereafter.
3. Winner of Dricus du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya
Overview:
The UFC has hinted at a title fight between Dricus du Plessis and Israel Adesanya. The winner would normally face the winner of Whittaker vs. Chimaev, but Strickland could step in if scheduling conflicts or injuries delay that bout.
Why This Fight Makes Sense:
Title Shot: Strickland has made a strong case for a title shot, especially after his recent performances.
Previous Encounters: Strickland’s history with both Adesanya and du Plessis adds a compelling storyline to the potential matchups.
Quick Turnaround: If the winner of du Plessis vs. Adesanya is ready for a quick turnaround, Strickland could step in for an immediate title shot.
Potential Timing and Location:
Late 2024 or Early 2025: This fight could be slated for a major pay-per-view event, potentially UFC 310, depending on the timeline of the title fight between Adesanya and du Plessis.
Sean Strickland has several exciting options for his next fight. Whether it’s a rematch with Jared Cannonier or Nassourdine Imavov, a high-profile bout with Khamzat Chimaev or Robert Whittaker, or a title shot against the winner of Dricus du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya, Strickland’s future in the middleweight division looks promising. Each of these matchups offers a path back to the title and solidifies Strickland’s position as one of the top fighters in the UFC.
