Sean Strickland criticizes New York ahead of UFC Newark fight

Sean Strickland has posted harsh criticism of New York City on social media ahead of his fight against Khamzat Chimaev in Newark, which is located close to New York. Instead of the typical athlete approach of praising the host city, Strickland called New York "a perfect example of what it means to be a Democrat" and criticized its children, adults, and leaders as "pathetic." He stated that New York and the majority of its residents are "a disgrace to America," adding that people there are "either a criminal or a rich pussy without a backbone." The post notes that Newark's Prudential Center is only 35 minutes by car from Central Park. Strickland's comments represent a stark departure from standard pre-fight promotional behavior.