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Sean Strickland Declines UFC 335 Main Event Over Significant Pay Reduction

There has been growing speculation around Sean Strickland’s absence from the UFC 335 main event card. The middleweight champion was expected to defend his title against No. 3 contender Nassourdine Imavov, but the fight was not announced when the event was revealed during UFC 332's broadcast.

Strickland recently pulled off an upset victory over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328, earning $1,082,000 for that split decision win in New Jersey. Meanwhile, Imavov holds a strong five-fight winning streak, having beaten notable opponents like Jared Cannonier, Brendan Allen, Israel Adesanya, and Caio Borralho.

Negotiations Collapse Over Salary Dispute

Initially, many assumed Strickland’s absence was due to injuries following an off-road accident. However, the real issue turned out to be contract negotiations, particularly concerning pay. Strickland confirmed talks were ongoing but emphasized the need to finalize compensation before confirming the fight.

"We're discussing pay now," Strickland said in response to a tweet on September 27. "Once that detail is squared, it's locked in. The issue is no one cares about the fake Frenchman. We're almost there."

Unfortunately, discussions broke down because the UFC reportedly offered Strickland a significant pay cut compared to his last bout. Sources indicate he was offered $400,000 to show and another $400,000 to win the title defense against Imavov—less than half what he earned after beating Chimaev.

Strickland, who has won the middleweight title twice, was reportedly seeking a guaranteed $1 million payout, reflecting his status and achievements in the division.

Challenger Challenges Champion Publicly

The UFC may try to reschedule this fight for early 2027, but Imavov seems unwilling to wait indefinitely. The challenger raised the stakes by offering $500,000 of his own money as a wager and questioned whether Strickland truly wants the fight.

"If it's really about money, I'll put $500k of my own money on the line if you beat me in January [Sean Strickland], putting this on record," Imavov wrote on X. "If you still don't take it, then you're just scared. I'll handle you outside. UFC, THIS is your champ? Come on, STRIP HIM."

There is no indication the UFC will entertain such a wager, but both sides remain hopeful a deal can be reached soon to secure Strickland’s first title defense.

Upcoming Matches at UFC 335 and Other Sports Events

  • UFC 335: Expected main event was Strickland vs. Imavov but replaced by Charles Oliveira vs. Diego Lopes for the BMF title
  • Co-main event: Alex Pereira vs. Sergei Pavlovich
  • Other scheduled matches on October 13 and 14 include:
  • UELFACMLSEPLUCL10/13 5:45pm SAB vs SLP
  • ARS vs LIL at 8:00pm
  • ATM vs MNU at 8:00pm
  • INT vs BRU at 8:00pm
  • GAL vs FCB at 8:00pm
  • RBL vs PSV at 8:00pm
  • VIK vs FCB at 8:00pm
  • VIL vs NAP at 8:00pm
  • FEY vs COM at 5:45pm on 10/14
  • LIN vs LIV at 5:45pm on 10/14
  • ROM vs RMA at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • AST vs FEN at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • BOG vs BVB at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • SHD vs AEK at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • MNC vs PSG at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • BET vs POR at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • SBA vs STU at 8:00pm on 10/14
  • SAB vs BVB at 5:45pm on 10/20
  • FEN vs SLP at 5:45pm on 10/20
  • ROM vs SBA at 8:00pm on 10/20

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