A New Challenge: Aljamain Sterling Eyes Featherweight Division
Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling is set to embark on a new journey in the featherweight division. The news broke during his appearance on the Mighty Podcast, hosted by none other than mixed martial arts icon Demetrious Johnson.
Sterling, who has previously competed as high as 180 pounds outside of his fighting career, currently maintains a healthy weight around 170-171 pounds. Despite the significant weight difference from his competition days at 135 pounds, Sterling feels in peak condition, a sentiment he shared with his fans and listeners on the podcast.
The Road Behind: Sterling's Bantamweight Tenure
The decision to move up a weight class comes after a notable stint at bantamweight, where Sterling amassed a nine-fight winning streak, including three title defenses. His reign came to an end at the hands of Sean O'Malley at UFC 292, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Known for his grappling prowess and athletic versatility, Sterling's success at bantamweight was underscored by his ability to overcome the physical demands of making weight, a challenge he described as arduous yet manageable.
Indeed, Sterling's weight-cutting feats are nothing short of extraordinary. He noted that his testing revealed he was 26.7 percent over the weight class limit compared to his bantamweight peers—a testament to his dedication and discipline in meeting the stringent requirements of the division.
Looking Ahead: Sterling's Featherweight Aspirations
As Sterling sets his sights on the featherweight division, he is already eyeing matchups with top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski. However, it is a potential bout with Max Holloway that could mark his debut in the 145-pound category. A victory over Holloway would not only cement Sterling's place in the featherweight ranks but also propel him towards title contention.
Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator, has weighed in on Sterling's decision. Cormier suggests Sterling should reconsider staying at bantamweight, citing the size and strength of featherweight competitors. In Cormier's view, Sterling's track record at 135 pounds offers a more promising path back to title contention. Nonetheless, Sterling's previous experience at featherweight—a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011—may serve as a confidence booster as he re-enters the division.
Standing at 5'7", Sterling would indeed be among the smaller athletes in the featherweight class, a fact that adds another layer of intrigue to his impending divisional shift. Yet, his technical skill set and adaptability have been hallmarks of his career thus far, suggesting that size may not be the sole determinant of his success at a higher weight.
Sterling's Perspective on the Weight Class Change
Reflecting on his career, Sterling acknowledges the challenges of weight cutting but stands by his methods, emphasizing a 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' mentality. His resilience and willingness to push through adversity have been evident throughout his time in the octagon.
In discussing potential timelines for his featherweight debut, Sterling hinted at a grand return, possibly at the landmark UFC 300 event or perhaps as early as March. This strategic planning underscores his intent to make a splash in the featherweight pool, aligning his comeback with a major event to maximize the impact of his divisional transition.
Aljamain Sterling's move to featherweight is a bold step in an already distinguished fighting career. It reflects a fighter's perpetual search for growth and new challenges. As the MMA community anticipates his next move, Sterling's journey will undoubtedly be followed with great interest, as he seeks to redefine his legacy within the hallowed halls of the UFC.