“Wood Chipper of Death” – Jared Cannonier Responds to Strickland’s Critics, Weighs In on Du Plessis Rematch

The UFC middleweight division is in the spotlight this February, with fireworks set to continue after Dricus du Plessis’ stunning victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 312. As the champion du Plessis took charge of the fight, bullying Strickland, Cannonier—who handed Strickland his last defeat—has now stepped up to address the backlash surrounding the du Plessis vs. Strickland rematch.

Cannonier didn’t hold back, throwing his voice into the firestorm of opinions about Strickland’s performance. The middleweight contender shared his take on Strickland’s remarks that he would fight “to the death” after delivering what many are calling one of the most uninspiring 25 minutes of his career. Cannonier’s bold comments about the situation have the combat sports world buzzing.

Strickland’s ‘To the Death’ Comment: An Eye-Opening Stance

Before UFC 312, Sean Strickland’s words were nothing short of intense: “I’ll fight to the death.” However, after facing Du Plessis in their rematch, Strickland’s performance underwhelmed many fans, despite lasting the full 25 minutes. He faced a relentless barrage of strikes from du Plessis, whose offensive output was unmatched. Yet Strickland’s resilience allowed him to survive—but he didn’t shine.

While some expected Strickland to charge in with the usual brawling style that made him a fan favorite, Cannonier believes that wasn’t the right approach. In fact, he’s sympathetic to Strickland’s reluctance to engage in such reckless tactics against a fighter as dangerous as du Plessis.

Cannonier’s Critique: “You Don’t Just Walk Into a Wood Chipper”

Jared Cannonier, who defeated Strickland in a split decision back in 2022, wasn’t afraid to speak his mind about the backlash against Strickland. Cannonier firmly believes that fans expecting wild brawls are misguided.

“You’re not going to see us walking into a wood chipper,” Cannonier stated bluntly on MMA Today. “What do we expect out of Strickland? He’s going up against a guy who can throw with intent; you can feel the power behind each shot. Even though Sean was trying to protect himself, you could hear and see the impact of the punches.” Cannonier’s choice of words sends a strong message—it’s not about delivering reckless punches but rather surviving against someone who can end the fight in an instant.

Strickland’s Brawl or Be Killed Approach? Cannonier Dismisses the Hype

Many fans were hoping for a knockout or a dramatic brawl between Strickland and du Plessis, a fight where only one fighter would leave standing. This has led to critics demanding that fighters engage in all-out warfare—but Cannonier isn’t buying into that mentality.

Cannonier doesn’t believe that these fan expectations align with the reality of what happens when you’re in the Octagon with someone as dangerous as du Plessis. “So y’all mad because they want us to walk in and try to kill each other?” Cannonier said. “No, that’s not what we’re here for. We’re fighters, not idiots running into danger.”

Cannonier Responds to Critics: “Kiss My A“

Cannonier’s outspoken response to Strickland’s critics has the potential to stir even more controversy in the MMA community. “F*** y’all, y’all ain’t paying us to do that s***,” Cannonier declared. “You’re not paying us to go in there and get hit just to entertain you. You’re not the ones getting cracked with punches and having to figure out how to survive.”

While some fans want a thrilling show of violence, Cannonier reminds everyone that professional fighters know the stakes—they aren’t there to entertain by risking it all for the sake of a crowd’s desires. As Cannonier so eloquently put it: “If you don’t like it, get your a**es up and try it yourself.”

Fighters Aren’t Here to Die: Understanding the Reality of Combat Sports

Cannonier’s comments about the wood chipper metaphor have struck a chord with many fans and fighters alike. This harsh, yet honest, statement underscores the reality of fighting at the highest level. It’s not about throwing yourself into the fire for the sake of excitement; it’s about survival and strategy.

Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is dominant—his record speaks volumes, with 20 stoppages in 25 professional fights. He’s defeated former champions like Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya, making his presence felt as one of the most dangerous contenders in the division.

Cannonier vs. Rodriguez: The Next Chapter in Middleweight Drama

As February continues to unfold, the middleweight division has already seen some monumental shifts. Jared Cannonier is set to headline UFC Vegas 102 against Brazilian powerhouse Gregory Rodrigues. The stakes are high, and Cannonier’s momentum could very well dictate the next title challenger for du Plessis. But regardless of what happens, Cannonier’s words have made one thing clear: fighters are not here to entertain fans by throwing caution to the wind.

A Revolution in Middleweight Thinking

Cannonier’s outspoken stance against the brawl or die mentality is a much-needed perspective in today’s world of MMA. It’s easy for fans to demand chaos, but as Cannonier pointed out, the fighters themselves are not looking to walk into a “wood chipper” for anyone’s entertainment. As the middleweight division continues to evolve, it’s clear that intelligence and survival matter just as much as pure violence.

With the upcoming fight against Rodrigues, Cannonier could very well send another message to the critics, reminding everyone that the fighters who survive at the top levels of combat sports know exactly what they’re up against—and aren’t going to put their careers at risk just to please a crowd. Fighters fight smart, and that’s what makes them so dangerous.