South Africans have united online to defend their country against UFC fighter Sean Strickland’s critical comments, showcasing their resilience and community spirit.
Global (17 August 2024) – When the chips are down, South Africans have an extraordinary way of coming together. We might bicker among ourselves, but the moment someone from outside throws shade our way, the entire nation stands united. And this time, UFC fighter Sean Strickland is learning that lesson the hard way.
Sean Strickland is no stranger to controversy. Known for his brash persona and unfiltered opinions, he’s made headlines inside and outside the Octagon. However, his recent comments on X (formerly Twitter) about South Africa have struck a nerve with Mzansi, sparking a wave of responses that he likely didn’t see coming.
In a tweet that quickly went viral, Strickland posted:
“UFC if Dricus, wins you might have to go to SA. Yall do you really want me going to a corrupt country with deep seated racism and poverty that is usually on the brink of a civil war?!? ‘Here’s the thing about South Africa’ lol”
“That country is so fucked.. I fought there when I was a kid.. poverty, racism, violence. It’s actually kinda sad especially for the children:/ I went to an orphanage and man…… they don’t even try to be decent there.”
With nearly a million views, Strickland’s post spread like wildfire, but instead of rallying support, it was met with a wave of powerful replies from South Africans who weren’t about to let their country be dragged through the mud.
One user shot back, “We may have a very interesting South Africa, but if you diss one of us, you diss 60 million of us. Papa wag vir jou 🤣🤣🤣,” perfectly capturing the unity and humor that define South African resilience.
Another reminded Strickland that “South Africa has more freedom of speech than the USA, no mail-in votes and results are counted in 72 hours. The ZAR is appreciating over the USD. You live in the new 3rd World, Sean. Everything is fake in the USA.”
And then there was this zinger: “You realize Dricus is only the 3rd best fighter in Boksburg- I dare you to come over here and say that to our faces 🇿🇦”
Strickland’s comments about the country’s history also didn’t go unnoticed. One response perfectly encapsulated the journey of transformation South Africa has undergone: “When u were a kid, maybe it was still apartheid. We have ‘GNU’ now. It’s a Vibe. Pull in boetie 👋🏽👏🏽.”
South Africans didn’t just defend their country; they also turned the mirror back on Strickland, with one user saying, “Poverty racism and violence…sounds like the USA 🇺🇸 pal.”
But perhaps the most poignant response came from a user who pointed out the hope that sports bring to the nation: “There is always hope, Sean. Look at how sport brings South Africans together. Check the videos after the rugby world cup victory last year. What Dricus is doing is to build on that, and if he wins or loses, all South Africans will welcome him as a hero.”
As Dricus du Plessis prepares to take on Israel Adesanya in the early hours of Sunday morning (South Africa time), the nation stands firmly behind him. Yes, South Africa faces challenges – high crime rates, poverty and corruption – but those challenges do not define the spirit of the nation. South Africans are resourceful, resilient, and unwavering in their hope for a better future. They rally for each other, and their unity shines through, especially when it comes to defending their homeland.
So, dear Sean Strickland, you might want to think twice before talking kak about South Africa online. This country may have its issues, but it’s also full of heart, courage, and a community spirit that’s unbreakable. And when it comes to standing up for their people, South Africans will always show up.
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