UFC 297: Sean Strickland Shares Interesting Theory On His Growing Popularity

Sean Strickland on why he's gained popularity.

UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland has an idea of why he's been able to garner a fanbase.

Strickland gained attention for not being shy when it comes to certain topics. He also isn't afraid to ruffle some feathers, but he's gotten physical whenever the tables have been turned on him. It's led to many having respect for Strickland for being authentic and a breath of fresh air.

His scintillating UFC 293 performance over Israel Adesaya to capture UFC gold certainly helped his stock as well. There are many factors that have contributed to Strickland's rise in popularity, but the UFC middleweight champion has his own theory on why MMA fans have taken a liking to him.

UFC 297: Dricus Du Plessis Explains Why He Lost Interest In Fighting Israel Adesanya

During an interview with Megan Olivi of ESPN MMA, Sean Strickland said it boils down to the fact that he isn't your typical athlete with status.

"Well, most people suck," Strickland said. "Most athletes suck. People like me because they're like, 'Oh, that's my white trash uncle that I used to hang out with. I know that guy, look he's famous, he's making money.' And then you have the superstars like McGregor, who walks around in a f****** suit, and then you have all these guys that like ⎯ you're a f****** punching bag, dude. At what point do you forget what you are? You are a f****** punching bag."

Strickland will hope to make his first UFC title defense a successful one when he meets Dricus Du Plessis in the main event of UFC 297 this Saturday night. Keep it locked on the MMA Knockout homepage for live coverage.

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