Aljamain Sterling's New Divisional Horizon
In a surprising turn of events, former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his intention to move up a weight class. The news broke during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast hosted by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson, where Sterling detailed his plans to join the featherweight ranks.
Sterling, known for his dynamic fighting style and impressive grappling skills, has previously competed at weights significantly higher than his competition class. Outside the octagon, he has tipped the scales at around 180 pounds. Currently, he maintains a healthier physique at approximately 170-171 pounds, a weight at which he feels fit and ready to compete.
The decision to change divisions comes after a setback in his illustrious career. At UFC 292, Sterling surrendered his bantamweight title to the rising star Sean O'Malley. Prior to this defeat, Sterling enjoyed a nine-fight winning streak, successfully defending his title three times. Despite this recent loss, his record remains one of high achievement within the division.
However, Sterling's move is not without its critics. Notably, former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier has expressed doubts about the shift. Cormier suggests that fighters often switch weight classes in response to challenges or a lack of success in their current division. He believes Sterling would be better served by remaining at 135 pounds, where he has already proven himself as a formidable competitor.
Nevertheless, Sterling is undeterred and has already set his sights on top-tier featherweight opponents. A potential matchup with Max Holloway, a former featherweight champion, could serve as Sterling's debut in the 145-pound division. A victory over Holloway would undoubtedly establish Sterling as a significant contender and possibly fast-track him towards a title shot.
Aljamain Sterling's previous foray into the featherweight category was over a decade ago at Cage Fury FC 10, where he secured a win via TKO. Standing at 5'7", Sterling would be among the smaller competitors in the UFC featherweight division, yet his skill set and experience could compensate for any size disadvantage.
Aljamain Sterling on Weight Management and Divisional Shift
"I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there," Sterling acknowledged, shedding light on his past struggles with weight management. However, he now feels more comfortable with his body composition, stating, "I feel good 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 also revealed that despite being 26.7 percent over the weight class limit compared to other bantamweights, he 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," he said, emphasizing his commitment and discipline in adhering to the strict weight-cutting process.
"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," Sterling added, reflecting on his wrestling background and the weight-cutting culture ingrained in the sport.
As for his future plans, Sterling hinted at a possible return to action, suggesting, "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." This statement sets the stage for an anticipated comeback, potentially marking a new chapter in his career at featherweight.
Cormier's advice, however, was tinged with caution. "Those guys are big. He's a bit of a tweener... is too big. 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," he opined, underscoring the physical demands and challenges of competing in a higher weight class.
Despite the concerns, Sterling remains steadfast in his decision, drawing inspiration from his history of overcoming obstacles. "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. I was like, if it ain