Ian Machado-Galley mocks Sean Strickland after losing at UFC 297: ‘If you ever have a fight like that, tell me to retire’

Ian Machado-Galley expressed his delight at Sean Strickland’s loss to Doricus du Plessis at UFC 297.

Galley, who has been in a verbal feud with former UFC champion Strickland, was overjoyed as du Plessis clinched the middleweight title with a split decision victory in the event’s main bout at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena.

Reacting to the fight, Galley commented, “This is a terrible situation.” He also shared a video on social media, criticizing the match for lacking technique and resembling an amateur brawl. He stated that if he ever fought like that, he would retire.

Additionally, Galley, who is set to face Jeff Neal at UFC 298 on February 17 in Anaheim, Calif., had previously mentioned his three-fight hit list for 2024, with Strickland being the final opponent he aimed to take on.

Since Galley fights at welterweight and Strickland holds the middleweight belt, the possibility of a matchup was unclear. However, with Strickland no longer holding the title, Galley believes his chances have improved, stating, “It made that fight even more possible.”

For more information on the card, check out MMA Junkie’s UFC 297 event hub.