Sean Strickland lied to doctor after brutal Kamaru Usman loss in 2017

Sean Strickland faced a brutal defeat against Kamaru Usman at UFC 210 in April 2017, suffering two 10-8 rounds and severe vision impairment. The current UFC middleweight champion revealed he lied to the ringside doctor to avoid a stoppage, despite struggling to see out of his left eye.

What happened during the fight?

Strickland entered UFC 210 on a three-fight win streak but was dominated by Usman from the opening bell. The Nigerian Nightmare controlled the fight with superior grappling, inflicting significant damage around Strickland’s left eye. Judge Dave Tirelli scored the first round 10-8 in Usman’s favor.

In the second round, Usman landed a big right hand that dropped Strickland. The American admitted to having vision issues, telling his coach before the third round that he couldn’t see out of his left eye. However, when the doctor approached, Strickland lied, claiming he could see to prevent the fight from being stopped.

Why did Strickland lie to the doctor?

Strickland’s decision to lie to the doctor was a desperate attempt to continue the fight. He explained that his eye was swollen, which caused him to squint. Despite his efforts, Usman dominated the third round, leading to a unanimous decision victory with scores of 30-27, 30-26, and 30-26.

What does this reveal about Strickland’s resilience?

Strickland’s willingness to lie to the doctor highlights his competitive spirit and determination. Despite being outmatched and suffering severe damage, he refused to give up. This resilience has been a hallmark of his career, contributing to his eventual rise to the UFC middleweight championship.

What’s next for Strickland?

As the current UFC middleweight champion, Strickland continues to be a dominant force in the division. His past experiences, including the tough loss to Usman, have shaped his fighting style and mental toughness. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how he performs in his upcoming title defenses.