Sean Strickland is a professional mixed martial artist, former UFC Middleweight Champion, and a top-ranked contender in the Middleweight division, known for his distinctive fighting style and accomplishments in the octagon. After securing the UFC Middleweight Championship at UFC 293 on September 10, 2023, Sean Strickland solidified his position as a prominent figure in mixed martial arts. Strickland embarked on his professional MMA career in 2008, establishing an impressive undefeated record of 9-0 predominantly within the King of the Cage (KOTC) promotion. His dominance culminated in a challenge for the KOTC Middleweight Championship in December 2012, which he won by split decision against Josh Bryant.

This championship victory also garnered him prestigious accolades including MMAjunkie.com Male Fighter of the Year (2023), ESPN Most Improved Fighter (2023), Fight Matrix Most Improved Fighter of the Year (2023), and Fight Matrix Most Lopsided Upset of the Year (2023). His career trajectory from a regional champion to a UFC titleholder underscores his resilience and skill, with his upset victory against Adesanya further recognized with the World MMA Awards Upset of the Year in 2024. Sean Strickland continues to be a top-ranked contender in the Middleweight division, known for his compelling presence and accomplishments in the octagon.