Sean Strickland criticizes New York ahead of UFC Newark fight

Sean Strickland posted harsh criticism of New York and New Jersey on social media ahead of his fight against Khamzat Chimaev in Newark. The bout will take place at Prudential Center, located just 35 minutes from Central Park. Rather than courting the local fanbase as athletes typically do, Strickland called New York "a perfect example of what it means to be a Democrat," criticizing children, adults, and leaders as "pathetic." He stated that New York and most of its residents are "a disgrace to America," adding that people there are either criminals or wealthy individuals without backbone. This inflammatory statement represents an unusual approach to fight promotion in the region.