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Sean Strickland reveals Sean Sharaf was sleeping on floor before UFC 331

Sean Sharaf was going through tough times just weeks before pulling off one of the biggest upsets in Ultimate Fighting Championship history.

By Sayan Nag · Sherdog

Published: Monday, 21 September 2026 at 3:37 AM

Key Things to Know

Sean Sharaf knocked out Gable Steveson in 12 seconds at UFC 331 as a massive underdog.
Sean Strickland shared direct messages showing Sharaf was sleeping on a floor mat weeks before the fight.
Sharaf received a $50,000 bonus that was doubled to $100,000 by Dana White.

The Story in 60 Seconds

UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland revealed that fighter Sean Sharaf was sleeping on a floor mat just three weeks prior to UFC 331. Strickland shared screenshots of direct messages showing Sharaf living with only a floor mat and packed luggage. Entering as a massive underdog, Sharaf secured a major upset by knocking out Gable Steveson with a left hook in just 12 seconds.

Following the victory, Sharaf earned a $50,000 bonus sponsored by Paramount+, which was subsequently matched with another $50,000 from Dana White. Sharaf reportedly plans to use the total $100,000 bonus to help his ailing mother retire, while Strickland publicly urged him to finally buy a proper mattress.

Read the full article on Sherdog

Sean Strickland reveals Sean Sharaf was sleeping on floor before UFC 331

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