Aljamain Sterling's Featherweight Aspirations
In a significant shift for his career, Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision 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 (MMA) icon Demetrious Johnson. Known for his agility and technical prowess in the octagon, Sterling’s transition to a higher weight class comes after a notable tenure at bantamweight.
Despite previously reaching a walk-around weight of nearly 180 pounds outside of competition, Sterling currently maintains a healthier physique at around 170-171 pounds. His comfort at this weight suggests a readiness for the challenges that the featherweight division will present.
The former bantamweight champion experienced a setback at UFC 292, where he lost the title to Sean O'Malley. Prior to this defeat, Sterling boasted an impressive nine-fight winning streak, with three successful title defenses under his belt. The loss to O'Malley was not only a blow to his record but also served as a catalyst for his decision to explore a new weight class.
Weight Class Considerations
An interesting statistic that Sterling shared indicates he is 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to other fighters in the bantamweight division. Despite this, he has consistently managed to make weight for his fights, showcasing a level of discipline and determination characteristic of elite athletes.
Sterling's ambitions in the featherweight division are high. He aims to contend with top fighters like Alexander Volkanovski, but first, he plans to square off against Max Holloway in what promises to be a thrilling featherweight debut. A victory over Holloway would undoubtedly establish Sterling as a formidable presence in the division.
Industry Perspectives
Daniel Cormier, a respected figure in MMA circles, has expressed his opinion that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier argues that fighters often switch weight classes in search of easier paths to success or when they encounter insurmountable challenges. He believes Sterling still has the potential to excel in the bantamweight division and eventually earn another title shot.
However, Sterling's prior experience at featherweight—where he secured a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011—provides a historical precedent for his latest move. Standing at 5'7", Sterling will indeed be one of the smaller competitors in the featherweight ranks, yet his skill set and adaptability could bridge the physical disparities.
Sterling's Resolve and Confidence
Reflecting on his career trajectory and weight management, Sterling acknowledges the difficulties he has faced. "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there," he admitted, shedding light on the taxing process of cutting weight. Yet, he remains optimistic about his current condition, noting, "I feel good fight where I'm at right now, I'm about 170, 171, and that's a good, healthy weight for me."
His dedication to making weight and competing at the highest levels, despite the inherent challenges, is evident. "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 asserted.
Looking ahead, Sterling envisions a potential marquee matchup at a milestone event. "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 speculated, hinting at a future bout that would surely capture the attention of MMA enthusiasts.
In summing up his perspective on his career and the move to featherweight, Sterling reflects on the principles that have guided him thus far: "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." With this mindset, Sterling steps into the featherweight arena, poised to test his mettle against new adversaries and seek triumphs in uncharted territory.