Bengals Rookie Wrestles Former UFC Champion in Training Session

Cincinnati Bengals rookie offensive lineman Dylan Fairchild has been training in an unconventional way by sparring with UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland inside the Octagon. Despite Strickland's MMA expertise and smaller stature at approximately 230 pounds, Fairchild, who weighs around 318 pounds, impressed by holding his own during the wrestling session, drawing praise from Strickland himself. Fairchild brings an undefeated high school wrestling background (67-0 record) and state titles to his football career, which enhances his physicality and technique as he competes for the starting left guard position. The Bengals, who have not drafted a true guard in the first three rounds since 2012, have high expectations for Fairchild as training camp approaches. This cross-sport training highlights Fairchild's commitment to preparation and the unique ways athletes are improving their skills ahead of the NFL season. The MMA and NFL communities alike have taken notice of this unusual but effective training collaboration.