Aljamain Sterling Announces Featherweight Division Move
In a surprising twist to his mixed martial arts career, former UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling has announced a move to the featherweight division. The revelation came during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast, hosted by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson. This decision follows his recent loss of the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292, which ended his impressive nine-fight winning streak and three successful title defenses.
Sterling, known for his agility and technical prowess, has previously competed as heavy as 180 pounds outside of competition. Currently maintaining a healthy weight around 170-171 pounds, he feels confident in his physical form. "I feel good where I'm at right now," Sterling remarked, noting his maintained physique complete with visible abdominal muscles. Despite the challenges of cutting weight, Sterling has consistently made the 135-pound bantamweight limit, attributing his success to a rigorous discipline rooted in his wrestling background.
The fighter also shared some insights into his weight-cutting process, revealing that he is 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to other bantamweights. Nevertheless, he has never failed to make weight, showcasing a testament to his dedication and resilience.
A New Challenge at Featherweight
Looking ahead, Sterling has set his sights on top-tier competition within the featherweight ranks. He expressed a desire to compete against notable contenders such as Alexander Volkanovski but has planned a high-stakes debut against Max Holloway. A victory over Holloway could catapult Sterling into immediate title contention within the new division.
At 5'7", Sterling would be one of the smaller athletes in the featherweight category, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by commentators and fellow fighters alike. Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and respected analyst, has publicly voiced his opinion that Sterling should remain at bantamweight. Cormier reasons that fighters often switch weight classes in search of easier paths to success or when they encounter insurmountable challenges. He believes that despite the setback against O'Malley, Sterling's optimal chances for regaining a title lie at 135 pounds, where his size and skill set have already proven formidable.
However, Sterling remains undeterred, citing his previous experience at featherweight—a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 in 2011—and his unwavering commitment to competing at the highest level. "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," said Sterling, defending his decision. "If it ain't broke don't fix it."
Potential Comeback at UFC 300
As for what's next, Sterling hinted at a possible return to action at the milestone UFC 300 event or perhaps as early as March. With both fighters currently without scheduled bouts, a match-up with Holloway could materialize on either timeline, setting the stage for Sterling's ambitious foray into the featherweight division.
Aljamain Sterling's decision to move up in weight class reflects a bold strategic pivot in his career. While some, like Cormier, may question the wisdom of this move, Sterling's confidence in his abilities and his track record of overcoming adversity suggest that he could yet again defy expectations. As the MMA community watches closely, Sterling's journey at featherweight promises to add an exciting chapter to his storied career.