Sean Strickland declares MMA the manliest sport, slams soccer

Sean Strickland, the UFC middleweight champion, has sparked debate by ranking MMA as the most masculine sport. In comments following the FIFA World Cup final, Strickland placed mixed martial arts at the top of his list, followed by kickboxing and boxing. He criticized soccer players for faking injuries, calling the sport one of the least masculine.

What did Sean Strickland say about sports?

Strickland, who regained the middleweight belt with a victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May, ranked sports based on perceived masculinity. He placed wrestling above hockey, American football, baseball, lacrosse, and tennis. Soccer and swimming were at the bottom of his list.

The 31-year-old fighter, with a record of 31-7, did not hold back in his assessment. He argued that MMA requires the most physical and mental toughness, making it the ultimate test of masculinity. Strickland's comments come as he prepares for potential future fights, including a rematch with Chimaev.

Why does Sean Strickland's ranking matter?

Strickland's ranking reflects his personal views on the physical and mental demands of different sports. His criticism of soccer, in particular, has drawn attention due to his blunt honesty. The UFC champion's comments highlight the ongoing debate about the perceived toughness of various sports.

His ranking also underscores the unique challenges of MMA, where fighters must be proficient in both striking and grappling. Strickland's success in the sport, including his recent title defense, lends weight to his opinions.

What's next for Sean Strickland?

Strickland's immediate focus is on defending his middleweight title. Khamzat Chimaev has expressed interest in a rematch, while Nassourdine Imavov and Dricus Du Plessis are also mentioned as potential contenders. The UFC champion's next fight will likely be a high-stakes matchup, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

As Strickland continues to make waves both inside and outside the octagon, his outspoken nature ensures he remains a polarizing figure in MMA. His ranking of sports and criticism of soccer have added another layer to his public persona, making him one of the most talked-about fighters in the UFC.