Strickland doesn’t understand depression.
Ultimate Fighting Championship fan-favorite Dustin
Poirier was recently prohibited from boarding a plane and
subsequently arrested for alleged public drunkenness. Addressing
the incident, “The Diamond” has opened up about his battle with
depression.
However, Strickland is having none of it.
Sean Strickland criticizes Dustin Poirier’s comments about
depression and mental health
The UFC middleweight champion says Poirier is not allowed to be
depressed, as he is rich and loved by many. The former middleweight
champion wrote on X:
Dustin “Im depressed” bro what? Youre rich
and loved by thousands of people.. Youre not allowed to be
depressed…What you did is got kicked off a flight and tried to fight a
cop….relax it happens to the best of us #IGBBMN— Sean
Strickland (@SStricklandMMA)
July 6, 2026
Strickland then slammed how those with a stable life are being
depressed, while others who are less fortunate are grasping at
life. His subsequent post read:
I just cannot understand depression
There are kids dying of cancer going through chemo. They would give
anything for one more dayBut you a grown ass rich man looks in the mirror and says I’m
depressed.Tell me why youre sad rich man? Lmao i
— Sean
Strickland (@SStricklandMMA)
July 6, 2026
Poirier has repeatedly spoken about mental health issues since he
retired from fighting. Strickland believes he will have already
lost if he needs to find a source of happiness after his
retirement. The polarizing 185-pounder claims his happiness comes
from acts of service to his family and community.
Once I get done fighting and I ask myself
“what will make me happy” I’ve already lostReal happiness comes from acts of service to your family or
community..If I’m in a position where I care less about paying the mortgage
and more on myself thats what ill focus on— Sean
Strickland (@SStricklandMMA)
July 6, 2026