UFC Vegas 76: Apex of the UFC; Las Vegas
The UFC’s seventh ranked middleweight; Sean Strickland holds his own in the rankings, and he will most likely improve on it after posting a 15th-place finish in his career. After not being captivated by the fact that many fighters preferred not to face him, he had to take a big risk.
Abusupiyan Magomedov is a tough fighter with a wide variety of skills on the ground and on his feet. And from the beginning, he was mixing things up. A variety of kicks landed at will. But most of the hooks and jabs were being thrown by Strickland. And, in return, Strickland was being cheap in attacking him, gathering information.
But the fight itself was almost over very early after an accidental poke in the eye by Magomedov. Later, Strickland said:
“I almost got pregnant, it was so deep. I almost gave up…. But I want the title.”
Strickland corner CHRIS CURTIS between rounds noticed things Magomedov wasn’t doing and told him. And the moment the second round began, the game began. The 32-year-old Californian did what he is known for. Let the leather fly, and fly at a ferocious pace.
He landed stinging 1-2 combos, shredding Magomedov along the fence line. As the Dagestan tried to cover up, it was clear as day that the pressure was bothering him. He tried to dodge the issues, but Strickland focused on his goal. A right hand dropped Magomedov, and Strickland followed with a ground and pound. He forced referee MARK SMITH to jump out at the 4:20 mark of the second round to stop the fight.
Sean Strickland holds his own in the rankings… but probably won’t get a next title shot
There’s no denying his chin, or his toughness; but a title shot won’t come later. But he is getting closer to him. That being said, he needs an opponent. One that can match his toughness. There was only one all out war at middleweight between Jared Cannonier and Marvin Vettori. Both are above him. (for now), and both meet the criteria. Either would be a fun fight. Add the fact that “The Killer Gorilla” handed him his last loss, a close split decision.
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