Sean Strickland praises NFL star Maxx Crosby following hard sparring session

Sean Strickland was nothing but complimentary of Maxx Crosby after the pair’s shared sparring session.

Away from the octagon, Strickland enjoys his many side quests, inviting random celebrities to spar and beating them up. The former UFC champion is known for his aggressiveness toward those he trains with, no matter their experience. Streamers have taken the brunt of the punishment from the 35-year-old, though he recently got some work in with an NFL defensive end.

Due to his career, Maxx Crosby is no stranger to discipline and rigorous routines, which aid his part-time training in combat sports. Crosby loves incorporating MMA and boxing into his offseason regimen, and when presented with the opportunity, was more than happy to share a few rounds with Sean Strickland, despite the latter’s known rough style.

Despite lacking the experience of Strickland, Crosby allegedly held his own during their three-round brawl. Both men reportedly came out of the session nursing minor injuries: a cut lip for Strickland and a bloodied nose for Crosby.

After the training session resurfaced online, Sean Strickland was quick to praise the NFL ace for his toughness.

“Max was sending it in the beginning,” Strickland said. “But, Max is a badass. The guy is an NFL superstar, dude gloves up for fun and spars for the love of the game.”

Maxx Crosby believes the integration of combat sports into his training has helped enhance hand speed and pass-rush ability.

The dedication to strapping on the gloves and throwing himself into mixed martial arts has earned Dana White’s recognition. Impressed by the footballer’s talent, the UFC CEO stated that in just a few short years, if committed to fighting, Crosby could find himself in the UFC heavyweight title picture.

Alongside White and the many other admirers, Sean Strickland labeled Crosby as the toughest player in the NFL.

“Max is the hardest NFL player hands down!” Strickland continued.

Max was sending it in the beginning….But Max is a badass. The guy is s NFL super star, dude gloves up for fun and spars for the love of the game…Max is the hardest NFL player hands down! 👊 https://t.co/ynY2qhfqdE

— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) March 2, 2026