Paulo Borrachinha reveals former champion's refusal to fight at UFC 302: 'It would be incredible'

Paulo borrachinha tries to get back to winning ways in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

In the midst of the search to resume the trajectory of success in UFC, Paulo borrachinha found himself involved in an unusual situation. According to the Brazilian, the former middleweight champion (up to 83,9kg.), Sean Strickland, turned down a fight against him at UFC 302, which will be held on June 1st. The revelation was made in an interview with the podcast “The Coach and the Casual”.

According to the Brazilian, the UFC had selected him to face Strickland, but the American declined the fight for reasons not yet disclosed. Borrachinha regretted his refusal, as he considered the confrontation a good opportunity to rehabilitate himself after three defeats in his last four fights.

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“The UFC suggested a fight against Cannonier to me. It's a good fight, I like the idea of ​​fighting him. They suggested the fight for June. But then two days ago the UFC came back and said, 'Paulo, you're going to fight Strickland in June.' It's a good fight, a fun fight. More fun than Cannonier. I don't know what happened, but Strickland said no. That's what the UFC told me. I only have this information from the UFC and it would be incredible. I would love to fight him”, said Borrachinha.

Borrachinha x Strickland

Going through a delicate moment in his career, with three defeats in his last four fights, Borrachinha is looking to get back on track to winning ways and replace himself as one of the main contenders for the middleweight title. To this end, the Brazilian does not rule out the possibility of facing other opponents, such as Jared Cannonier, previously mentioned by UFC.

Strickland's refusal may be related to his recent loss to Dricus du Plessis No. UFC 276, in April this year. The North American lost the middleweight belt via split decision and is looking for an immediate rematch against the South African.

And this one? Paulo borrachinha said he accepted the fight against Sean Strickland, but for some reason the North American would have refused.

Did we miss the craziest press conference in history or was the Brazilian, once again, playing the game?
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