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Sean Strickland debating vacating title to push towards UFC exit over pay dispute: 'Kinda over it'
On Wednesday, October 7, 2026, UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland threatened to leave the organization, suggesting he could vacate his title and "speed run" his contract by fighting Jake Paul.
Strickland cited dissatisfaction with current UFC compensation, comparing his potential earnings to Conor McGregor, who reportedly earned $30 million for a 30-second fight.
Contemplating a move to the 205-pound light heavyweight division, the fighter indicated he could secure a larger payday in boxing while Paul instructed him to contact Most Valuable Promotions to arrange a potential bout.
A heated in-person confrontation occurred Wednesday when Strickland and rival Nassourdine Imavov clashed at the UFC Performance Institute in Las Vegas following stalled negotiations for their potential rematch.
The champion remains unbooked for a 2026 return as the promotion selected a different main event for their final card of the year, leaving his immediate future uncertain.