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Kamaru Usman backs Sean Strickland in UFC pay dispute with promotion

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 17, 2026, 12:08 AM

Last updated Oct 17, 2026

Kamaru Usman backs Sean Strickland in UFC pay dispute with promotion

Summary

UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman expressed support for UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland in his ongoing pay dispute with the UFC. Strickland is seeking a pay increase for his next title defense against Nassourdine Imavov, which has delayed their rematch. Usman acknowledged the challenges both fighters face regarding compensation, recognizing Strickland's frustrations while also understanding the UFC's stance given Strickland's recent contract signed in May. Usman's insights came during an appearance on the 'Pound 4 Pound' podcast.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Usman supports Strickland's quest for a pay increase.
•Strickland's pay dispute is delaying his rematch with Imavov.
•Usman acknowledges both sides' viewpoints on the pay issue.
•Strickland signed a new contract in May, complicating the situation.
•Usman shared his thoughts during a podcast appearance.

Latest Updates

12:08 AMYahoo Sports — Kamaru Usman Supports Sean Strickland in UFC Pay Dispute

What they're saying

"
UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman says that he supports UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland in his pay dispute with the promotion. Strickland is currently involved in a back-and-forth pay dispute with the world’s leading MMA promotion, as the UFC middleweight champ wants to make more money for his next title defense against Nassourdine Imavov, which […] The post Kamaru Usman Supports Sean Strickland in UFC Pay Dispute appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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