Sean Strickland has opened up about why he hates sparring with Alex Pereira, as footage shows that the Brazilian is still managing to find a home for his left hand.
The pair have become friends since they clashed in a huge match-up at UFC 276 on July 2, 2022, inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, in which ‘Poatan’ emerged the victor.
Sean Strickland gives an insight into sparring Alex Pereira but confesses he’s still concerned about the left hook
On Saturday evening at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, Alex Pereira will attempt to defend his light heavyweight throne against Khalil Rountree.
And to ensure he’s in optimum condition, he’s enlisted the help of his old rival Sean Strickland to give him the hard rounds in the gym.
In the time since their fight, the pair have developed a close bond, frequently helping each other hone their crafts.
Pereira recently uploaded a YouTube video in which his American friend discussed what it’s really like to spar with him.
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Referencing what caused his demise last time around, Strickland said: “We’re going to be banging today. It’s going to be fun, a little scary; keep the left hand up.”
The video then cut to a clip of the famous knockout from their fight, in which the 205-pound King sent ‘Tarzan’ crashing towards the canvas with his trademark shot.
Likely remembering that moment, the California native confessed: “I don’t wanna spar you today, bro.”
After releasing his famous phrase, ‘Chama’, the video moved on to the sparring, in which Pereira consistently landed his left hook.
Following the session, Strickland explained: “I feel like I did really well with it, but he would’ve knocked me out right there. That’s why I hate sparring with him, bro; when I feel like I’m doing good and like I’m maybe winning the round, he just hits me with some s**t.”
Sean Strickland reveals exactly what he was thinking during his fight with Alex Pereira
Of all Strickland’s qualities, honesty is perhaps the one that springs to mind the most. Regardless of what people think, the sportsman is always willing to say what he believes.
Therefore, he has seen no problem in giving an incredible perspective on his thought process while in the heat of battle with Pereira.
From before the shot landed, to the immediate aftermath of the punch exploding on his face, Strickland has explained what went through his head.
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