Divisional Shift for Aljamain Sterling
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has declared his intention 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 icon Demetrious Johnson.
Sterling, whose physicality has been a topic of discussion, has fluctuated in weight significantly outside the confines of competition. Previously tipping the scales at as much as 180 pounds, he currently maintains a healthier physique at around 170-171 pounds—a weight at which he feels both comfortable and performance-ready.
The Path Ahead
The decision comes after Sterling's loss of the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292, which put an end to his impressive nine-fight winning streak that included three title defenses. Despite this setback, Sterling is setting his sights on top contenders in the featherweight category, expressing a desire to square off against the likes of Alexander Volkanovski.
His debut in the new division is anticipated to be against Max Holloway, a former featherweight champion himself. A victory over Holloway would not only mark a successful entry into featherweight ranks but also potentially position Sterling as a significant contender for the title.
However, opinions vary on this strategic move. Notably, Daniel Cormier, former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator, has voiced his belief that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier reasons that fighters often switch weight classes when they encounter difficulties or are unable to find success, suggesting that Sterling still has potential to regain his footing and work his way back to a title shot at bantamweight.
Physical Considerations
At 5'7", Sterling would be one of the smaller athletes in the featherweight division, presenting a unique set of challenges given the stature of his potential opponents. Nevertheless, Sterling is no stranger to competing at a size disadvantage, having fought once before at featherweight early in his career—securing a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 in 2011.
Reflecting on his weight management journey, Sterling acknowledges the difficulty of making the 135-pound limit, stating, "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there." Yet, he remains confident in his ability to compete at the highest levels regardless of these challenges, adding, "I feel good fight 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."
Moreover, Sterling has subjected himself to testing, revealing that he is 26.7 percent over the weight class limit in comparison with other bantamweights. Despite this, he has consistently managed to make weight, emphasizing his commitment and adaptability: "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."
Looking to the Future
As for what lies ahead, Sterling is already eyeing potential matchups, suggesting that UFC 300 could be an ideal event for his featherweight campaign to gain momentum. "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," said Sterling, indicating his readiness to step back into the octagon.
Whether this change in weight class will prove beneficial remains to be seen, but Aljamain Sterling's resolve and competitive spirit are unwavering. As he embarks on this new chapter of his career, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the former bantamweight champion can replicate his past successes in the featherweight division.