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UFC bantamweight standout Song Yadong has urged middleweight champion Sean Strickland to set a positive example following controversial comments made by the champion about China. Strickland, known for his outspoken nature, recently stirred controversy by suggesting that China's major exports were plastic and COVID-19.
In response to Strickland's comments, Yadong, who hails from Heilongjiang, China, expressed his disapproval on social media. Addressing the champion directly, Yadong emphasized the importance of discussing facts rather than relying on baseless stereotypes. He urged Strickland, as an athlete, to focus on setting a good example by avoiding unfounded remarks.
Yadong is currently gearing up for a significant fight against former UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan at UFC 299 in Miami. The 26-year-old fighter has been on an impressive run with back-to-back victories over Ricky Simon and Chris Gutierrez. With a record of 21-7-1 in MMA, Yadong has established himself as a formidable force in the bantamweight division.
Meanwhile, Strickland is preparing to defend his middleweight title against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 297 in Toronto on January 20th. The American fighter recently claimed the championship with a unanimous decision victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 293. Prior to that, Strickland secured wins against Nassourdine Imavov and Abusupiyan Magomedov, aiming to extend his winning streak to four matches.
As tensions rise between the two fighters, the UFC community awaits the outcome of Yadong's challenge to Strickland's remarks and looks forward to their upcoming fights as they continue to make waves in the MMA world.