Sean Strickland calls New York 'disgrace to America' ahead of Newark fight

Sean Strickland has posted controversial comments about New York on social media ahead of his upcoming fight with Khamzat Chimaev in Newark, New Jersey. The bout will take place in Newark, which is approximately 35 minutes from New York City. Rather than engaging in typical pre-fight promotion praising the local area, Strickland tweeted harsh criticism of New York, calling it "the perfect example of what it means to be a Democrat." He characterized children, adults, and leaders in New York as "pathetic" and described the city and its residents as "a disgrace to America," stating people there are "either a criminal or a rich pussy without a backbone." The inflammatory comments come as Strickland prepares for his high-profile middleweight matchup.