TLDR
- Sean Strickland posted on X about joining the National Guard and getting disability benefits after retiring from MMA
- The comment appears to be a joke fitting with Strickland’s reputation for dark humor and unconventional remarks
- Strickland currently holds the UFC Middleweight Championship after defeating Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 in May 2026
- The 35-year-old fighter is not retiring soon and may defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov
- Strickland won back the middleweight belt after previously losing it to Dricus du Plessis twice
Sources: mmasucka.com
UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland posted on social media about his plans after retiring from mixed martial arts. The 35-year-old fighter wrote on X that he wants to join the National Guard and receive full disability benefits.
“I’ve finally figured out what I’m gonna do when I retire. National Guard..Full disability…..” Strickland posted on October 3, 2026.
The comment appears to be made in jest, fitting with Strickland’s reputation for dark humor and unconventional remarks. He has not announced any actual plans to retire or enlist in the National Guard.
😳 Ismail Naurdiev believes Khamzat Chimaev’s extreme weight cutting cost him the title against Sean Strickland.
“Weight cutting is the biggest bullsh*t in this sport, it’s basically bullying. It was a rough cut for [Khamzat] in that camp.
But, I feel if fighters could fight at… pic.twitter.com/ko3mWtC9Oa
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 29, 2026
VA disability compensation typically requires service-connected conditions. Military disability retirement involves specific medical and service requirements that vary based on individual circumstances.
Strickland’s Recent Fighting Success
Retirement does not appear to be coming soon for Strickland. He currently holds the UFC Middleweight Championship after defeating Khamzat Chimaev by split decision at UFC 328 in May 2026.
Strickland’s path back to the title has been eventful. He first won the belt by defeating Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 in 2024.
He lost the championship to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297. Strickland then lost a rematch against du Plessis at UFC 312 in February 2025.
After the second loss to du Plessis, Strickland defeated Anthony Hernandez. He then won back the middleweight title from Chimaev at UFC 328.
What’s Next for the Champion
At 35 years old, Strickland shows no signs of slowing down in his fighting career. Reports suggest he may defend his title against Nassourdine Imavov soon.
The fight with Imavov has not been officially announced yet. UFC has not confirmed the matchup or provided a date for the potential bout.
Strickland has built a reputation for making controversial comments on social media. His posts often include dark humor and statements that generate reactions from fans and critics.
The National Guard comment follows this pattern of provocative social media activity. Fans familiar with Strickland’s online presence likely recognize the post as another example of his humor rather than a serious career announcement.
Strickland continues to train and compete at the highest level of mixed martial arts. His next title defense is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
