Aljamain Sterling's New Challenge: Featherweight Division
In a surprising turn of events, Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision to move up a weight class, setting his sights on the featherweight division. The former bantamweight champion revealed this career shift during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast, hosted by mixed martial arts legend Demetrious Johnson.
Sterling, who has previously walked around as heavy as 180 pounds when not in competition, currently maintains a healthier weight of approximately 170-171 pounds. Despite the significant weight cut required to compete at bantamweight, Sterling has managed to maintain a rigorous regime that has kept him fit and fight-ready.
The catalyst for this change appears to be his recent loss of the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292. Prior to this defeat, Sterling had been on an impressive nine-fight winning streak, successfully defending his title three times. His dominance in the division was palpable, but the loss to O'Malley seems to have prompted a reassessment of his career trajectory.
Eyeing Featherweight Contenders
With his gaze now fixed on the featherweight category, Sterling is not shying away from the division's elite. He has expressed a desire to take on top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski, indicating his ambition to climb the ranks quickly. Furthermore, he has targeted Max Holloway for his debut match in the new weight class, a bout that could position him as a formidable contender if successful.
However, Sterling's move has drawn some skepticism, notably from Daniel Cormier, the former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator. Cormier has publicly stated his belief that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds, suggesting that fighters often switch weight classes when they encounter difficulties or fail to find success. He also highlighted Sterling's stature, standing at 5'7", which would make him one of the smaller competitors in the featherweight division. Cormier contends that Sterling's chances of regaining a title are stronger at bantamweight, where he has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with.
Sterling's Perspective on Weight and Performance
Despite Cormier's reservations, Sterling remains confident in his decision. Reflecting on his past ability to make the bantamweight limit, he shared, "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there." He elaborated on his current physical condition, emphasizing his fitness: "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."
Addressing the scrutiny surrounding his weight management, Sterling acknowledged his process, stating, "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." His commitment to competing at the highest level, regardless of the challenges, was clear as he added, "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 also hinted at a potential timeline for his featherweight debut, suggesting that UFC 300 could be an ideal event for his return, or possibly a date in March. "He doesn't have anything to do right now. I don't have anything to do right now," Sterling said, potentially referring to a matchup with Holloway.
A Look Back and the Path Forward
This isn't Sterling's first foray into the featherweight division; he fought once before at this weight class, securing a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011. However, the landscape of the UFC's featherweight division has evolved significantly since then, presenting new challenges and opportunities for the seasoned fighter.
As Sterling embarks on this new chapter in his career, he carries with him the experience and resilience forged through years of competing at the highest levels of the sport. While his decision may come with risks, his track record suggests that he is more than capable of adapting and thriving in the face of adversity. The MMA community will be watching closely as Aljamain Sterling tests his mettle against the featherweights, looking to add another storied chapter to his already illustrious fighting legacy.