- Sean Strickland reacted to Francis Ngannou’s departure from the UFC
- “Tarzan” thinks it’s okay for “The Predator” to chase after the big-money fights
After months of holding their breath, UFC fans were stunned to have learned heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has been officially released by the promotion. Due to the magnitude of the news, UFC Vegas 67 main event winner and Ngannou’s occasional sparring partner Sean Strickland was quizzed for comments.
Go where the money is
Speaking to the media at his post-fight conference, Strickland admitted he’s not happy with how things panned out and now Ngannou is gone. But on the other hand, “Tarzan” also pointed out that if “The Predator” thinks there are bigger opportunities outside the UFC, such as a huge-money fight with Tyson Fury, then he totally understands.
“It’s a damn shame to see Francis go. He’s f**king iconic in the UFC. He’s probably one of the greatest heavyweights we’ve ever had. It s**ks he parted ways but I hope him and Tyson Fury fight for a lot of f**king money,” Strickland said. “That’s ‘go f**k yourself money.’ That’s like I can piss on a golden toilet seat. I can do whatever the f**k I want. “It s**ks that he leaves but if he can get that big money fight with Tyson… hats off to you Francis. Enjoy your ‘go f**k yourself’ money.”
Sean Strickland talks Francis Ngannou.#UFCVegas67 pic.twitter.com/XmXzD8FprS
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) January 15, 2023
Strickland fought his way back to the win column by outperforming Nassourdine Imavov at their UFC Vegas 67 main event bout. “Tarzan” secured the unanimous decision victory to end his two-fight losing streak.
A shakeup in the heavyweight division
Needless to say, Ngannou’s departure will result in a shakeup in the UFC’s heavyweight division. Prior to being released, “The Predator” has been heavily linked to a massive title fight with incoming heavyweight and former light heavyweight champ Jon Jones.
With Ngannou now out of the picture, the UFC resorted to the next best fight there is – Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title at UFC 285.
As for Ngannou, widespread rumors swirl that the now-former UFC heavyweight champion is edging closer to securing a deal with PFL.
UFC 285: Jones vs. Gane will take place on March 4, 2023, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
