Strickland and Lawson Spar, Footage Appears to Show Illegal Punch

UFC star Strickland and comedian Lawson share video of their sparring session, with debate over legality of strike.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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UFC middleweight Sean Strickland and comedian Preacher Lawson have shared footage of a recent sparring session between the two, with Lawson claiming Strickland hit him with an illegal punch to the back of the head. Strickland has disputed this, saying the shot was to Lawson's ear and was legal. The video appears to show Strickland landing a strike that sends Lawson flying across the cage.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the intensity of Strickland's sparring sessions, particularly when training with celebrities. There are ongoing concerns about fighter safety and the potential for illegal strikes, even in sparring sessions, which could have serious consequences.

The details

In a stand-up comedy routine, Lawson joked about sparring with the former UFC champion Strickland, claiming Strickland hit him in the back of the head. Strickland disputed this in the comments, saying he only hit Lawson behind the ear, which is legal. Lawson then shared footage Strickland had posted, which appeared to show the UFC fighter sending the comedian flying across the cage with a strike.

  • The sparring session between Strickland and Lawson took place recently in Las Vegas.
  • Lawson shared the footage and discussed the incident during a stand-up comedy routine.

The players

Sean Strickland

A former UFC middleweight champion known for his intense sparring sessions, particularly with celebrities who visit his gym in Las Vegas.

Preacher Lawson

A comedian who appeared on America's Got Talent and recently sparred with Strickland at his gym in Las Vegas.

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What they’re saying

“Couple things..... 1. You're big and black, I just assumed you were a bad-- boxer... 2. You kept putting your head down and the only shot was behind your ear which was clean.......”

— Sean Strickland (Instagram)

“Everything you said in the comment was true. I am black, I've been black my whole life, I think I'm stuck like this. Never say never but I'm pretty sure I'm black my whole life.”

— Preacher Lawson, Comedian (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the risks and controversies that can arise from high-intensity sparring sessions, even between professional fighters and celebrities. It raises questions about fighter safety and the potential for illegal strikes, even in training environments.