A New Challenge: Sterling Shifts to Featherweight
In a surprising turn of events, former UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision to move up a weight class to compete in the featherweight division. This revelation came during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast, hosted by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson.
Sterling, who has previously tipped the scales at around 180 pounds outside of his fighting career, currently maintains a healthier weight of approximately 170-171 pounds. Despite this, he feels confident in his ability to transition to the higher weight class effectively.
The shift comes after a setback in his illustrious career, with Sterling losing the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292. Prior to this loss, Sterling enjoyed a nine-fight winning streak and had successfully defended his title three times, establishing himself as a dominant force within the division.
His decision to move up is not without its calculations. Sterling revealed that he is 26.7 percent heavier than the average bantamweight competitor, suggesting that his body composition may be better suited for the challenges of the featherweight contenders. Among those he has expressed interest in facing is none other than top featherweight Alexander Volkanovski.
Moreover, Sterling has set his sights on a high-profile debut in the new division against veteran fighter Max Holloway. A victory over Holloway would not only cement Sterling's position in the featherweight category but also propel him towards title contention once more.
Differing Opinions
Not everyone agrees with Sterling's strategic move. Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator, has voiced his belief that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier suggests that fighters often switch weight classes when they encounter difficulties or fail to find success, implying that Sterling's current path could be a misstep.
Cormier also points out the physical disparities Sterling might face, noting that at 5'7", he would be one of the smaller athletes in the featherweight division. Despite these concerns, Sterling remains undeterred, drawing from his extensive experience in wrestling and mixed martial arts to justify his decision.
"I've always done it. It's the only thing I've ever known, and I've always competed at a high level and won. If it ain't broke, don't fix it," Sterling confidently stated, reflecting on his consistent performance despite the rigorous demands of making weight.
Looking Ahead
While the exact timeline for Sterling's featherweight debut is yet to be confirmed, he hinted at a possible return at UFC 300 or perhaps as early as March. The anticipation of such a matchup will undoubtedly captivate fans and pundits alike, as they speculate on how Sterling's speed and technical prowess will translate against larger opponents.
Aljamain Sterling's career thus far has been defined by his resilience and adaptability. His willingness to embrace a new challenge in the featherweight division speaks to his competitive spirit and desire to continue evolving as a fighter. As the MMA community watches closely, Sterling's journey will either serve as a testament to the virtues of change or a cautionary tale of ambition. Regardless, his pursuit of greatness continues unabated, promising exciting matchups and compelling narratives in the world of mixed martial arts.