People are starting to rally behind the idea of a UFC return for former Middleweight Champion Luke Rockhold. The free agent fighter made headlines recently by expressing his desire to face his outspoken rival, Sean Strickland, inside the Octagon. Although they were originally scheduled to fight at UFC 268, Rockhold withdrew due to injury. Now, years later, he’s asking UFC CEO Dana White for a chance to settle the score once and for all.
The Strickland-Rockhold Rivalry
Sean Strickland, who recently defeated Paulo Costa at UFC 302, has invited Rockhold to a gym war at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas. This proposed fight wouldn’t involve any purse or prize other than bragging rights. Separated from the promotional powers, former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson has vouched for Rockhold’s return to the UFC, believing he has a good chance of beating Strickland.
“Fighters, we beef with each other,” Jackson told ‘The Schmo‘. “It is just unfortunate that there’s contracts and fighters can’t just go and entertain the fans when one’s out of the contract. I say, uncle Dana need to sign Luke Rockhold back to the UFC. Get ’em in the mix of things and just one day put that fight together because with all due respect, I think Luke Rockhold has a good chance of kicking Sean Strickland’s ass.”
Luke Rockhold’s Journey
Rockhold, despite a three-fight losing streak before leaving the UFC, boasts significant wins over Michael Bisping Lyoto Machida, and Chris Weidman. Strickland, on the other hand, is riding high with victories over Israel Adesanya and Paulo Costa. As the #1 contender in the middleweight division, Strickland is patiently waiting for a title shot.
During a recent podcast, Rockhold urged Dana White to sign him back to the UFC so he could face Strickland. His recent knockout victory over Joe Schilling in Karate Combat 45 showcased his skills, and fans are eager to see if he can make a successful comeback.
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