Paulo Costa Claims Sean Strickland Turned Down Fight Offer
Paulo Costa Reveals Offered Fights
In a recent interview with comedian Andrew Schulz, former UFC middleweight title challenger Paulo Costa disclosed that he was presented with two potential opponents for his next fight.
Proposal of Fights
Costa said that he was offered a matchup against fellow former title challenger Jared Cannonier. According to Costa, he had expressed interest in the bout, especially considering the suggested time frame of June.
However, he claims, shortly thereafter, the UFC approached Costa with another proposal. They had suggested a matchup against Sean Strickland, which they had labeled as a compelling and entertaining matchup, even more so than the Cannonier fight.
Unexpected Refusal by Strickland
Costa says the unexpected had occurred when he learned that Strickland had declined the fight. According to Costa, he received this information directly from the UFC.
Costa expressed his disappointment at Strickland's refusal, as he believed the fight would have been exciting and beneficial for both fighters.
Strickland's Response
While a representative for Strickland didn't immediately respond to requests for comment, Strickland took to Instagram to provide his perspective. He posted, "I never say no...I say how much,".
He later elaborated on Twitter, expressing his interest in a rematch with Dricus du Plessis, who defeated him at UFC 297, or a highly anticipated matchup with former champion Israel Adesanya.
