Islam Makhachev on Sean Strickland

Sean Strickland and Islam Makhachev represent two completely different sides of the MMA personality spectrum, and their public exchanges have become one of the sport’s most entertaining storylines. Strickland, a two-time UFC middleweight champion, once openly questioned Makhachev’s plans to move up in weight, bluntly calling the Dagestani star a “little man” who wouldn’t be able to deal with larger opponents. Makhachev, the reigning UFC welterweight champion with a 28-1 record, surprisingly answered with respect rather than hostility. He described Strickland as “unhinged” but also “an interesting fellow,” recalling how the two had previously connected during a private conversation about family values and Dagestani traditions. Known as “Tarzan,” Strickland is famous for his raw, unfiltered personality and relentless trash talk, while Makhachev remains composed and calculated even when facing provocation. As 2026 unfolds, their contrasting personalities and fighting styles—one chaotic and explosive, the other calm and methodical—continue to fuel debate over what would happen if they ever shared the Octagon.