A New Challenge: Aljamain Sterling Moves to Featherweight
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision to move up a weight class. The transition to the featherweight division was revealed during his appearance on the Mighty Podcast with host Demetrious Johnson, stirring up the mixed martial arts community with anticipation.
Weighty Decisions
Sterling's career has been marked by remarkable fluctuations in weight. Previously tipping the scales at 180 pounds outside of competition, he currently maintains a healthier weight range of around 170-171 pounds. This weight, according to Sterling, comes with a level of comfort and physical readiness, as he confidently stated, "I feel good fight where I'm at right now... I'm not fat. I've got some abs going."
The fighter's struggle with making the 135-pound limit has been a constant battle, one that he has managed successfully despite being 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to his peers in the bantamweight category. Sterling reflected on the grueling process, saying, "It's not easy, but I always get it done."
End of an Era
The move to featherweight follows a significant chapter in Sterling's career. After a nine-fight winning streak and three title defenses, his reign as bantamweight champion came to an end at UFC 292, where he lost the belt to Sean O'Malley. Despite this setback, Sterling’s ambition remains undeterred as he eyes new challenges and opportunities at 145 pounds.
Eyeing Featherweight Gold
With aspirations to climb the featherweight ladder, Sterling has expressed a desire to take on top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski. However, his first test in the new division is expected to be against none other than Max Holloway. A victory over Holloway, a respected figure in the featherweight class, could catapult Sterling into immediate title contention.
But not everyone agrees with Sterling's strategy. Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and esteemed analyst, has voiced his opinion that Sterling should remain at bantamweight. Cormier argues that fighters typically switch weight classes in search of easier paths to success or when they encounter insurmountable challenges. He believes that Sterling still has what it takes to compete and thrive at 135 pounds.
Previous Featherweight Foray
This is not Sterling's first foray into the featherweight division. He has fought at this weight once before, securing a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011. Despite this previous experience, standing at 5'7", Sterling would be considered one of the smaller competitors within the UFC's featherweight ranks. This fact adds another layer of intrigue as to how he will fare against larger opponents.
Looking Ahead
As the MMA world looks forward to Sterling's featherweight debut, the fighter himself seems to be eyeing a significant event for his return. Hinting at a possible appearance at UFC 300 or perhaps a return in March, Sterling's path forward is bound to draw attention and speculation.
Throughout his career, Sterling has adhered to a philosophy of sticking with what works, as he remarked, "I've always done it. It's the only thing I've ever known and I've always competed at a high level and I won." Whether this steadfast approach will translate to success in a higher weight class remains to be seen.
As the MMA community debates the potential outcomes of Sterling's bold move, one thing is clear: Aljamain Sterling's journey in the UFC continues to evolve, promising exciting matchups and further tests of his skill and determination in the world of competitive fighting.