With UFC 328 looming, Sean Strickland has issued an unusual plea, asking the promotion to keep Johnny Eblen out of the Octagon. The former middleweight champion, preparing to face Khamzat Chimaev on May 9 in Newark, New Jersey, insists that his cross-training partner from Xtreme Couture is too lethal a competitor to be granted a UFC contract.
Strickland’s candid appeal to UFC matchmakers
In a recent social media clip, Strickland called on UFC matchmakers to “never let this man come to the UFC,” referring to Eblen, the ex-Bellator middleweight champion now competing in the PFL. Known for his aggressive pressure and well-rounded game, Eblen has been instrumental in sharpening Strickland’s own skills during sparring sessions in Las Vegas. With Strickland eyeing redemption after losing the title, he admits Eblen would be “fighting for the belt” if he ever signed.
Johnny Eblen’s rise through Bellator and PFL
‘Pressure’ Eblen built his reputation in Bellator before the PFL merger, defending his middleweight crown multiple times. After dropping a PFL title bout to Costello van Steenis, the 34-year-old bounced back by submitting former UFC fighter Bryan Battle in the opening round at PFL Pittsburgh. Rumours of an attempted release to join the UFC circulated last summer, but no deal materialised. Eblen’s recent victory only underscores Strickland’s fears about his teammate’s readiness for the biggest stage.
What Eblen’s signing would mean for the 185lb division
The UFC middleweight class is already stacked, but adding a finisher of Eblen’s calibre could reshape championship dynamics. His trio of elite ground-and-pound skills, wrestling pedigree and knockout power would pose a fresh challenge to contenders such as Dricus du Plessis and Robert Whittaker. For Strickland, now 12-2 in his UFC career, avoiding a potential matchup against Eblen might be as strategic as fending off Chimaev’s relentless pressure.
As UFC 328 draws near, all eyes will be on how Strickland’s pre-fight narrative unfolds inside the Octagon. Whether the promotion heeds his advice or signs Eblen remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the middleweight division’s future could hinge on this decision.
FAQ
What did Sean Strickland say about Johnny Eblen?
Strickland publicly begged UFC officials not to sign Johnny Eblen, calling him a “savage” and warning he’d be a title contender immediately.
When and where is UFC 328 taking place?
UFC 328 is scheduled for May 9 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, headlined by Khamzat Chimaev vs Sean Strickland.
What promotion does Johnny Eblen currently fight in?
Eblen competes in the Professional Fighters League (PFL), after previously holding the Bellator middleweight title.
How could Eblen’s signing impact the UFC middleweight division?
With his wrestling, knockout power and unbeaten Bellator record, Eblen would immediately rank among the top 185lb contenders, reshaping title contention.
