Sean Strickland is drawing backlash after a string of offensive remarks made during a UFC media day appearance in Houston ahead of his upcoming fight.
The former middleweight champion appeared at the promotional event to preview his Saturday bout against Anthony Hernandez, marking his first fight since returning from a suspension.
During the session, Strickland launched into a rant that included homophobic language directed at Bad Bunny and comments suggesting women have been “empowered too much.”
Asked about a hypothetical women’s MMA matchup, Strickland veered off topic, making crude jokes and dismissing interest in women’s sports. “No one gives a f–k about women’s sports,” he said, before adding remarks that reduced women to domestic roles.
Sean Strickland GOES OFF on “f*ggot” Bad Bunny and the NFL halftime show:
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) February 18, 2026
“How do we f**king ruin this sport? How do we gay it up? Why don’t we bring in a gay foreigner who doesn’t speak English? Get the f**k out of here. The NFL is pathetic.”
pic.twitter.com/YJiO7FS6eo
He also referenced past relationships involving Ronda Rousey and commented on Gina Carano in a sexualized manner.
The comments continued when Strickland criticized the NFL and Super Bowl halftime entertainment, describing Bad Bunny as a “f*ggot” and mocking league leadership. “How do we ruin this sport?” he said, claiming the league no longer represents masculinity.
Strickland, who competes under the Ultimate Fighting Championship banner, previously faced discipline for an altercation at a live event.