Strickland sparks fresh controversy by teaching children to load a machine gun

UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland ignited fresh controversy after uploading a video of himself teaching children how to load a belt-fed machine gun, drawing an incendiary comparison in the process. The clip, shared on his own social media, is the latest in a series of provocative public statements from the 30-7 fighter.

In the video, Strickland narrates the lesson with characteristic bluntness. “I’m teaching the youth valuable skills… I would imagine this is how an African rebel feels, teaching kids how to load a belt-fed machine gun,” he said. He captioned the post: “Passing on valuable skills to the youth. Pay it forward.”

The footage has renewed scrutiny of Strickland’s outspoken views on firearms. A self-described owner of a large personal gun collection, Strickland has consistently encouraged others to exercise their right to bear arms. He drew similar headlines ahead of his middleweight title rematch against Dricus Du Plessis in Sydney last year, when he publicly criticised Australia’s gun laws — legislation introduced following the 1996 Port Arthur massacre carried out by Martin Bryant.

Strickland’s profile has never been higher. Earlier this month he dethroned Khamzat Chimaev in a significant upset at UFC 328 to reclaim the middleweight championship. Chimaev has since called for an immediate rematch, though Strickland has indicated he views Nassourdine Imavov as the more deserving next challenger for the title.

The video is unlikely to alter Strickland’s approach. He has repeatedly leaned into his controversial public persona, treating backlash as validation rather than deterrent. Whether the UFC moves to address the latest episode remains to be seen.