Aljamain Sterling Sets Sights on Featherweight Division
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his intention to move up to the featherweight division. This revelation came during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast, hosted by none other than mixed martial arts legend Demetrious Johnson. Known for his dynamic fighting style and impressive grappling skills, Sterling's decision has sent ripples through the MMA community.
A New Challenge Ahead
Despite previously reaching a weight of 180 pounds in his off-season, Sterling currently maintains a healthy weight of around 170-171 pounds. His comfort at this weight suggests readiness for the challenges that await in the 145-pound featherweight division. However, Sterling’s shift comes after a recent setback at UFC 292, where he lost the bantamweight title to the formidable Sean O'Malley. Prior to this defeat, Sterling had been on a commendable nine-fight winning streak, successfully defending his title three times.
The statistics paint a clear picture: Sterling is 26.7 percent heavier than the average bantamweight competitor. Despite this, he has consistently made the 135-pound limit, a testament to his discipline and determination. Now, as he eyes the featherweight class, Sterling is not shying away from the top dogs; he has expressed a keen interest in taking on elite contenders like Alexander Volkanovski.
Debut Plans and Potential Showdowns
Sterling is already plotting his debut in the new division with high stakes, aiming to square off against Max Holloway, a former featherweight champion himself. A victory over a competitor of Holloway's caliber could skyrocket Sterling into title contention, marking him as a significant threat in the featherweight ranks.
However, not everyone agrees with Sterling's strategic move. Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator, has voiced his concerns. Cormier believes that athletes often switch weight classes when they encounter obstacles or struggle to find success. He argues that Sterling's track record at bantamweight should encourage him to remain in the division, where he has proven to be a dominant force.
Cormier further points out that at 5'7", Sterling would be one of the smaller competitors in the featherweight division. Despite this, Sterling has prior experience fighting at this weight—his first professional featherweight bout was a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011. It's this experience and his past success that fuel Sterling's confidence in his ability to compete—and win—at featherweight.
Sterling's Perspective on Weight and Competition
Reflecting on his career, Sterling acknowledges the physical toll of maintaining a lower weight class. "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there," he said. The fighter also elaborated on his current state, emphasizing his health and fitness at his present weight. "I feel good fight where I'm at right now, I'm about 170, 171, and that's a good, healthy weight for me. I'm not fat. I've got some abs going. I don't know how I've ever made it [to 135], and I don't know how I've made it for so long," Sterling confessed.
Sterling remains unfazed by the critics and the daunting task of weight management, a challenge he's familiar with from his wrestling days. "People can say whatever they want. This is the only way I know how to compete from wrestling, to college wrestling, to now MMA. It's not easy, but I always get it done," he asserted confidently.
Looking ahead, Sterling is targeting a marquee event for his featherweight debut. "He doesn't have anything to do right now. I don't have anything to do right now. I think UFC 300 could be a fire card, comeback for that, or maybe March," he mused, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal moment in his career.
With a history of overcoming adversity and a tenacious spirit, Sterling's venture into the featherweight division is poised to be one of the most closely watched narratives in the UFC. As he prepares for this next chapter, the MMA world will be watching to see if Sterling can translate his bantamweight success to featherweight glory.