Aljamain Sterling's New Chapter at Featherweight
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision to move up a weight class and compete in the UFC's featherweight division. The revelation came during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast hosted by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson, stirring up the combat sports community with debates and speculations about the implications of this career pivot.
Shifting Divisions
Sterling, who has previously tipped the scales at 180 pounds in his off-season, currently maintains a healthy weight around 170-171 pounds. This new regimen appears to be more sustainable for him, as he mentioned feeling good and healthy, even showcasing some abdominal definition. "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," Sterling expressed, reflecting on his physical condition away from the strict demands of the bantamweight limit.
The decision comes after a setback at UFC 292, where Sterling lost his bantamweight title to rising star Sean O'Malley. Prior to this loss, Sterling had been riding high on a nine-fight winning streak, successfully defending his title three times. Despite his recent defeat, Sterling's ambition remains undeterred, aiming to challenge top fighters in the featherweight category, including the likes of Alexander Volkanovski.
However, it's worth noting that Sterling's move to featherweight is not without its challenges. At 5'7", he will be among the smaller competitors in the division, which could present certain disadvantages against taller and longer opponents.
Back to Familiar Territory
This is not Sterling's first foray into the featherweight division. He made a successful debut back in 2011 at Cage Fury FC 10, securing a victory via TKO. His return to the 145-pound class is set to begin with a bang, as he plans to face none other than Max Holloway in his inaugural bout. A win against a high-caliber opponent like Holloway would certainly cement Sterling's status as a formidable contender in his new weight class.
Controversy and Support
Despite Sterling's confidence, not everyone is convinced that this is the best course of action. Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and respected analyst, voiced his concerns, suggesting that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier argues that athletes often switch weight classes when they encounter obstacles or fail to find success, implying that Sterling's move might be premature. "I think he should stay at 135," Cormier stated, adding, "Those guys are big. He's a bit of a tweener... He has a good chance at winning enough fights to work his way back to a title fight. He has a better chance at 135 when he's undeniable again."
Yet, Sterling defends his decision with the resilience of an athlete accustomed to overcoming adversity. He referenced his wrestling background as a testament to his ability to adapt and succeed. "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. I was like, if it ain't broke don't fix it," said Sterling, indicating his readiness to tackle the challenges ahead.
Looking Ahead
With a potential comeback fight hinted for either UFC 300 or March, fans and pundits alike are eagerly anticipating Sterling's next steps. "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," Sterling mused about the timing of his featherweight debut.
The shift to featherweight also brings Sterling's weight management into focus. He disclosed that he is 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to other bantamweights, yet has never failed to make weight. "I did the testing and my numbers came back that I'm 26.7 percent over the weight class limit in comparison with all the other bantamweights. I make the weight," Sterling affirmed, underscoring his discipline and dedication to the sport.
As the MMA world watches on, Aljamain Sterling's journey at featherweight promises to add another compelling narrative to his already storied career. Whether this move will lead to a resurgence or serve as a cautionary tale remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Sterling's fighting spirit and determination to compete at the highest level are unwavering.