Aljamain Sterling's Featherweight Aspirations
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his intention to move up a weight class. During an appearance on the Mighty Podcast with Demetrious Johnson, Sterling revealed plans to compete in the featherweight division. This decision comes after his recent loss of the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292, ending a remarkable nine-fight winning streak that included three defenses of his title.
Sterling, known for his agility and technical prowess, has previously competed at higher weights, even fighting as heavy as 180 pounds outside of competition. Currently maintaining a weight of around 170-171 pounds, he feels healthy and fit, expressing satisfaction with his physique and readiness for competition. "I feel good where I'm at right now," Sterling remarked, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining a lower weight class. "I'm about 170, 171, and that's a good, healthy weight for me."
Weight Class Challenges and Physicality
The leap to featherweight is not without its calculations. Sterling has undergone testing, which indicates he is 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to other bantamweights. Despite this significant difference, Sterling has consistently made weight, showcasing his discipline and commitment to competing at the highest level. His previous success at featherweight—a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 in 2011—adds a layer of credibility to his latest career move.
However, the shift invites skepticism from some corners of the fight community. Notably, Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and respected analyst, has voiced concerns. Cormier suggests that athletes often change weight classes when they encounter obstacles or fail to find success. He believes Sterling should remain at 135 pounds, arguing that despite being "a bit of a tweener" due to his size, Sterling would have better chances of regaining a title in the bantamweight division.
At 5'7", Sterling will indeed be among the smaller competitors in the featherweight category. Yet, his technical skills and experience may compensate for any disadvantage in stature. Sterling himself seems unfazed by these concerns, stating, "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." His confidence remains unshaken as he prepares for this new chapter in his career.
Upcoming Featherweight Debut
Looking forward, Sterling has set his sights on top contenders in the featherweight division, expressing a desire to take on names like Alexander Volkanovski. However, his immediate focus is on a potential featherweight debut against Max Holloway, a match that could solidify his standing as a significant contender in the new division. A win against a fighter of Holloway's caliber would undoubtedly send a strong message to the featherweight roster.
Sterling appears to be eyeing major events for his featherweight debut, hinting at a possible appearance at UFC 300 or aiming for a return in March. These high-profile opportunities would provide the perfect stage for Sterling to demonstrate his capabilities at 145 pounds and begin his ascent through the ranks.
Conclusion
As Aljamain Sterling embarks on this transition, the MMA world watches with anticipation. Will the former bantamweight champion replicate his success at a higher weight class? Or will the challenges of facing larger opponents prove too daunting? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Sterling's journey continues to captivate fans and analysts alike, adding another exciting narrative to the ever-evolving landscape of mixed martial arts.
Sterling's resolve is clear as he reflects on his career and the road ahead: "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." With such determination, the featherweight division may soon witness the rise of a new contender in Aljamain Sterling.