Sean Strickland, known for his relentless approach during training, pushed NFL standout Maxx Crosby to his limits during a sparring session in 2023. The Las Vegas Raiders defensive end, standing 6 feet 5 inches tall, faced Strickland’s aggressive strikes as the UFC middleweight contender aimed for a knockout. The session, which captured the attention of fans, revealed the physical challenge Crosby encountered when facing a seasoned fighter like Strickland, highlighting how vulnerable anyone is to a potential knockout regardless of their background.
The sparring clip shows Crosby attempting to trade punches with Strickland, but his defensive mistakes—particularly moving backward with hands down—left him open to two powerful hooks landing on his chin. Just before the round ended, someone outside the cage called out for Strickland to ease up, likely saving Crosby from an even more severe blow. Addressing those urging caution, Strickland replied bluntly,
“
He was going harder. F— you guys,
”
emphasizing his no-holds-barred sparring style.
Background on the sparring exchange and reactions
Maxx Crosby previously reflected on their encounter, remarking the two
“
beat the s— out of each other
”
immediately after their session three years ago. Until recently, fans had only seen a few stills and unremarkable clips, but new footage shared by Crosby on social media this past Saturday offered a clearer look at Strickland’s intensity and determination to score a knockout during their gym fight.
This sparring session fits within Strickland’s well-known reputation for approaching practice with maximum aggression, treating all opponents from professional fighters to personalities like Sneako with the same formidable intensity. Strickland’s Houston TKO victory also drew attention as he called out top names like Khamzat Chimaev, questioning who should be his next opponent inside the UFC octagon.
Maxx Crosby’s potential transition into mixed martial arts
Looking beyond the gym, there is growing speculation about whether Maxx Crosby will eventually pursue a career in MMA. Dana White, UFC president, has expressed strong confidence that Crosby has the potential to become a UFC heavyweight champion by 2030. Crosby himself has not ruled out the idea and said he remains open to the possibility if it aligns with his goals and mindset.
During a recent interview, Crosby stated,
“
You know, it’s funny, Hunter Campbell and Dana, they’re hilarious, and they’re fully convinced that by the year 2030 or 2031, I’m gonna be the heavyweight champion,
”
indicating the UFC’s belief in his fighting ability. He further explained that he does not put limits on what he might accomplish and remains open to new challenges despite the wear his body has endured.
He added,
“
I love fighting… I have the power and speed.
”
signaling his passion for competition and the physical attributes that could aid his transition to MMA if he chooses to take that step.
The significance of Strickland’s and Crosby’s sparring encounter
This intense sparring showcase between Sean Strickland and Maxx Crosby highlights the crossover potential between professional football and mixed martial arts, with athletes like Crosby drawing attention from the UFC community. Strickland’s aggressive style clearly tested Crosby’s resilience, providing insight into the challenges that await if and when Crosby pursues MMA seriously.
With Dana White backing Crosby’s future in the UFC and Strickland actively engaging top contenders like Khamzat Chimaev, the UFC landscape is brimming with exciting possibilities. Fans will likely keep a close watch on whether Crosby formally enters the MMA arena and how Strickland continues his quest for notable matchups.
New footage of NFL star Maxx Crosby sparring Sean Strickland in 2023 just dropped 👀
Strickland started throwing heat 😭 pic.twitter.com/1W94nr0dOP
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) March 1, 2026
