Strickland's coach surprises by naming the ideal opponent for his pupil's first title defense

S. Strickland (left) and his trainer E. Nicksick (right) in training. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @eric_xcmma

Amid questions about what the next step will be for Sean Strickland As UFC middleweight champion (up to 83,9kg), Eric Nicksick, 'Tarzan' coach, took the lead and revealed his team's desire. Aware that his will will not be very efficient in the face of the decisions that the organization wants to make, the coach pointed out Jared Cannonier as an athlete deserving a chance.

“Obviously, whatever they’re going to do, they’re going to do it. But I have to say Jared Cannonier, for a number of reasons. Number one, he beat us. It may have been a split decision, but we were beaten on the record. And I think there were things we didn’t do correctly in that fight that made us lose,” said Eric in an interview with 'The Schmo'.

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When justifying his choice, Nicksick praised Cannonier's professionalism.

“I called Coach (John) Crouch this week, and I said, 'Man, I was so impressed with Jared... their professionalism (at UFC 293) fight all week'. They came prepared. They came with an opportunity in mind. It's not easy to travel halfway around the world and not know if you'll be able to fight. You are there as a reserve, but you also have to stay ready. I feel what Jared Cannonier done, his body of work and what he's shown in his last few fights, I think he's the fight. You have to at least consider him as your number one,” he concluded.

Jared Cannonier (left) receives attack from Sean Strickland (dir.) in UFC Las Vegas 66. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Pending the UFC's decision on its next steps, Sean Strickland did not refuse to take immediate revenge against Israel adesanya, who has so far not commented on the matter. Just like his coach, 'Tarzan' stated in a press conference after the event that he is aware of the work carried out in Ultimate, indicating that the organization is the one who decides.