Sean Strickland's UFC 296 Brawl with Dricus Du Plessis

In a recent episode of the JAXXON PODCAST, UFC welterweight contender Gilbert Burns shared his firsthand account of the chaotic brawl between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 296. Burns revealed that he was seated near Strickland during the event in Las Vegas when tensions escalated. He noted that Strickland had given a heads-up about a potential confrontation, indicating that the incident was not entirely unexpected. Burns described the altercation as intense but ultimately a draw, with both fighters exchanging blows before security intervened. His family, who were also present, had been prepared for such an occurrence due to the prior warning, ensuring their safety during the melee.

Nicky Rodriguez vs. Jon Jones: A Heated Training Session

Shifting focus to training dynamics, Burns discussed an intense sparring session involving BJJ star Nicky Rodriguez and UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. Around the 15:30 mark of the podcast, he recounted how the session drew significant attention, with everyone stopping to watch the competitive exchange. Burns highlighted Rodriguez's grappling prowess and Jones's adaptability, emphasizing the high level of skill on display. This matchup provided a unique glimpse into the preparation and mindset of elite fighters, showcasing the intensity that defines top-tier training environments.

Training in Brazil: Roots and Techniques

At approximately the 25:10 point in the video, Burns delved into his experiences training in Brazil, where he honed his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills. He spoke about the cultural significance of BJJ in his home country and how it shaped his career as a multiple-time world champion in the discipline. Burns emphasized the rigorous training methods and the community aspect of Brazilian gyms, which instilled a strong work ethic and technical foundation. He credited these early years for his success in the UFC, particularly in securing nine submission victories throughout his MMA career.

Reflections on Fighter Dynamics and Respect

Towards the latter part of the discussion, around the 40:00 timestamp, Burns offered insights into the broader fighter dynamics within the UFC. He addressed the perception of Sean Strickland among fans and peers, defending Strickland’s ability to back up his words with action in the octagon. Burns pointed out specific instances where Strickland proved his mettle, reinforcing the importance of respect among fighters despite public personas or trash talk. This segment underscored the complex relationships and mutual understanding that exist behind the scenes in the high-stakes world of mixed martial arts.