Strickland dismisses Magomedov's 'domestic champion' jabs after UFC Baku win over Pereira

Sean Strickland is unbothered by Sharabutdin Magomedov’s post-fight tirade, telling the unranked middleweight contender on X that beating a teammate is a long way from beating the champion. Strickland (31-7) reclaimed the UFC middleweight title last month in a major upset over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328.

The flashpoint came after Magomedov defeated Strickland’s training partner Michel Pereira by unanimous decision at UFC Baku last weekend, overcoming early adversity to earn a come-from-behind victory. Strickland had helped Pereira prepare for the fight by emulating Magomedov’s style in the gym.

Rather than congratulate Strickland on the preparation work, Magomedov turned his attention to the champion directly. The Russian fighter labelled Strickland a “domestic champion” and claimed he is too afraid to defend his title outside the United States — pointed remarks given that Magomedov has not yet been officially ranked at middleweight.

Strickland’s response was brief and dismissive. “It makes me laugh. Bro you fought my teammate… There are levels to this haha,” he wrote on X.

The exchange underlines the growing profile of Magomedov (17-1), who has rattled off six UFC victories with his only professional defeat coming against Michael Page. His performance at UFC Baku will likely push him closer to the official middleweight rankings, but Strickland’s reaction suggests the champion sees no urgency in entertaining a rivalry just yet.