As UFC 312 approaches, Sean Strickland finds himself at the center of a whirlwind of rumors and media backlash. The middleweight contender is preparing for his rematch with Dricus Du Plessis, but it’s not just the fight that’s grabbing attention. Strickland is also dealing with speculation about his health, after a photo of a blemish on his arm started circulating online. This led to claims that he may be suffering from a staph infection, a potentially fight-ending condition.
Strickland Fires Back at Staph Infection Rumors
The rumors were sparked when Du Plessis, who has been trading barbs with Strickland leading up to UFC 312, posted a comment mocking his opponent. Du Plessis referred to Strickland’s blemish, joking, “What? He grew taller and added staph infection to his arsenal.” The comment quickly spread, adding fuel to the fire of an already heated fight week.
But Strickland isn’t letting the accusations slide. During a press conference in Sydney, just days before the fight, he went on a fiery rant in response to the staph infection rumors. “Listen you motherf——, I’m immune to staph,” Strickland declared confidently. “You see this f—— mustache? I give staph, I don’t f—— get staph,” he continued, clearly undeterred by the speculation.
That massive staph infection on Strickland’s arm was the real star of the press conference #UFC312 pic.twitter.com/YrT9bXDQsI
— CrashMMA (@mmacrash) February 6, 2025
The Australian Newspaper Criticism
Strickland’s tirades have also caught the attention of the Australian media, with the popular newspaper The Daily Telegraph calling him the “UFC’s biggest imbecile.” In fact, their February 6 issue made Strickland the center of their front-page criticism, with a headline that read, “Will someone, please knock this guy out?” This has only added to Strickland’s growing reputation as a polarizing figure.
The UFC even shared the newspaper’s front page on their social media, further fueling the drama. In response to the paper’s harsh criticism, Strickland didn’t hold back. “Bunch of communists, guys,” he exclaimed, taking aim at the Australian media. “I come to this f—— country and talk about freedom of speech and guns and taxes. And you got these f—— communists in the media trying to f—— put me down. Why? Because you wanna control the media and you don’t like freedom of speech.”
— UFC (@ufc) February 6, 2025
Strickland’s Rising Popularity in Australia
Despite the negative press, Strickland has managed to win over some Australian fans. His brash attitude and blunt remarks have kept him in the spotlight, and the presence of Alex Pereira in his corner for the fight has only added to the buzz surrounding the event.
While Strickland is certainly a divisive figure, there’s no denying that his bold statements and larger-than-life personality are a big part of what makes UFC 312 so intriguing. Whether you love him or hate him, Strickland’s antics are sure to make this rematch with Du Plessis one to remember.
