A New Chapter for Aljamain Sterling
In an unexpected twist to his mixed martial arts career, former UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling has announced a significant shift in his fighting path. The athlete revealed his decision to move up a weight class to the featherweight division during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast with famed fighter Demetrious Johnson.
Weighty Decisions
Sterling's history of weight fluctuations has been notable; he has previously reached as much as 180 pounds outside of his competition weight. However, Sterling currently maintains a healthier physique at around 170-171 pounds and feels this is an optimal weight for him, citing a good physical condition that still allows him to sport visible abs. This current weight puts him at 26.7 percent over the bantamweight limit, a significant margin compared to his peers in the category. Despite the challenges, Sterling has always managed to make the required weight for his fights, embodying the discipline and determination that are hallmarks of his career.
Title Reign and Loss
The announcement follows Sterling's recent loss of the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292, which ended his impressive nine-fight winning streak, including three defenses of his championship. This defeat has seemingly prompted Sterling to reassess his position within the UFC and look for new opportunities to showcase his skills.
Looking Ahead
Eager to test himself against the best in the featherweight ranks, Sterling has expressed a desire to take on top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski. His debut in the new division is planned against none other than Max Holloway, a marquee matchup that could immediately propel Sterling into contention status. A victory over a renowned fighter such as Holloway would not only cement Sterling's place in the featherweight division but also potentially fast-track him towards a title shot.
Differing Opinions
Not everyone agrees with Sterling's decision to change weight classes. Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator, believes Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier has voiced his opinion that fighters often switch divisions when they encounter obstacles or struggle to find success. He acknowledges Sterling's "tweener" status—too large for bantamweight yet potentially one of the smaller competitors at featherweight—but insists that Sterling's chances of earning another title shot are better in the bantamweight division where he has already proven himself to be a formidable opponent.
Back to the Roots
This isn't Sterling's first foray into the featherweight class; he previously fought at this weight early in his career, securing a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011. Standing at 5'7", Sterling will indeed be one of the shorter fighters in the UFC featherweight division, presenting him with a new set of challenges as he adjusts to facing larger opponents.
Despite the concerns and advice from figures like Cormier, Sterling remains steadfast in his decision. He reflects on his wrestling background and the constant battle with weight that comes with it, emphasizing that his ability to compete at a high level has been consistent regardless of these struggles. In his own words, if his method isn't broken, there's no need to fix it. This mindset has carried him through a successful career thus far and will be put to the test as he embarks on this new chapter.
As Sterling looks forward to potential matchups, he hints at the possibility of featuring on the landmark UFC 300 card or making his featherweight debut as early as March. Whichever date becomes the milestone for his featherweight journey, the MMA community will be watching closely as Aljamain Sterling seeks to redefine his legacy within the sport.
With determination in his voice and a clear vision for his future, Sterling is ready to close the bantamweight chapter of his career and open a new one at featherweight. Whether this move will lead to triumph or tribulation remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Aljamain Sterling is not one to shy away from a challenge.