Sean Strickland, former UFC middleweight champion, opened up about his financial status and career decisions during a livestream with influencer Adin Ross. He revealed a $4 million net worth and his plan to reach $8-10 million by the end of his fighting career, ensuring a comfortable retirement. Strickland also discussed turning down a recent fight offer against Caio Borralho, citing their personal friendship.
Strickland’s Financial Outlook
Strickland detailed his wealth, stating, “My net worth is probably about $4 million, liquid.
” He clarified, “When I say liquid, I mean investments. I have about $500,000 in real estate and the rest is in different accounts.” His diversified portfolio reflects a strategic approach to financial growth.
💰👏 Sean Strickland’s current networth is around $4 Million and he estimates it to be at least $8-10M when he is done fighting.
“I have around $500,000 in real estate and the rest is in different accounts.
By the time I am done fighting, worse case scenario, I’ll probably have… pic.twitter.com/bSG8hkcYl3
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) June 1, 2025
He projected future earnings, saying:
“By the time I’m done fighting, worst-case scenario, I’ll probably have a net worth of $8-10 million. I could live off that. I would do about a five percent withdrawal, so five percent withdrawal of $8 million is like $400,000. So when I’m done, I’ll probably be making about $400K a year at a five percent withdrawal.” This plan highlights his focus on long-term stability.
Sean Strickland, born February 27, 1991, in Anaheim, California, began his MMA career in 2008, compiling a 29-6 record. He debuted in the UFC in 2014, defeating Bubba McDaniel at UFC 171. Strickland won the middleweight title at UFC 293 in September 2023, upsetting Israel Adesanya via unanimous decision. He lost the belt to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297 in January 2024 and fell in their rematch at UFC 312 in February 2025. Known for his defensive striking and Philly Shell guard, he holds a 65.4% significant strike defense rate, the highest among active UFC middleweights.
His career earnings, estimated at $3-5 million, include a $1.39 million payout against du Plessis at UFC 297. Strickland has also secured endorsements with Monster Energy, Full Violence, and The Gun Store in Las Vegas. Despite his success, he remains vocal about UFC fighter pay issues, criticizing contract negotiations in a May 2024 interview with Daniel Cormier.
Strickland shared his thoughts on life after fighting, saying:
“I don’t know, I won’t stop.” He added, “I like to work. What I tell people, after a fight you get this large chunk of money, you’ve got a broken nose, you can’t fight, and you kind of wake up and you’re like, ‘What will make me happy?’ I have all the money I want, I’m doing what the f*ck I want, and I realized that I’m the most unhappy when I wake up and I ask myself, ‘What is going to make me happy?’”
His candid reflection reveals the emotional challenges fighters face beyond financial success.
His work ethic drives him to stay active, even with significant wealth. Strickland’s comments suggest he may explore roles in MMA or other fields post-retirement, seeking purpose beyond the octagon.
Strickland explained why he turned down a fight with Caio Borralho, stating:
“It was Caio. Those fights are just hard because you’ve got a wife, you’ve got a kid, who I personally know, who I like. He’s such a cool guy. He’s a really nice guy, so it’s one of those things where it’s like, do I really want to?” h/t MMAFighting
This decision underscores the personal connections that can influence a fighter’s career choices.
Borralho, a top-10 middleweight, trains in Brazil and has a growing reputation, making the fight a potential title eliminator. Strickland’s refusal highlights the ethical dilemmas in MMA, where camaraderie can conflict with professional demands.
Strickland’s financial security comes after 23 UFC fights, including three title bouts, over 11 years. His highest payday was $1.39 million against du Plessis at UFC 297, reflecting his status as a top earner. However, he has criticized UFC pay structures, noting in May 2024 that the organization falls short in contract fairness.
His recent loss to du Plessis at UFC 312 in February 2025 left him without a booked fight. Turning down Borralho suggests Strickland is selective about his next move, possibly eyeing matchups with bigger names or better strategic value, like a proposed bout with Belal Muhammad.
Strickland’s financial planning and fight choices reflect a fighter at a crossroads. His $4 million net worth and $10 million goal provide a safety net, allowing him to prioritize personal values over immediate opportunities. His comments on happiness suggest a deeper search for fulfillment as he navigates his career’s later stages.
