A New Challenge: Aljamain Sterling Sets Sights on Featherweight Division
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his intention to move up a weight class and compete in the featherweight division. This significant career shift was revealed during his appearance on the Mighty Podcast with host and fellow fighter Demetrious Johnson.
Sterling, who has previously competed at weights as high as 180 pounds outside of competition, feels comfortable making this transition. Currently maintaining a healthy weight of around 170-171 pounds, he is confident in his physical form and believes it's sustainable for competing at featherweight. "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," Sterling remarked, emphasizing his readiness for the new challenge ahead.
Looking Back at Sterling's Bantamweight Journey
The decision comes after a notable run in the bantamweight division, where Sterling had accumulated a nine-fight winning streak, including three title defenses, before being dethroned by Sean O'Malley at UFC 292. Despite this setback, Sterling's performance in the division has been impressive, with a history of overcoming the odds to make weight, despite being 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to other bantamweights. "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," he explained, showcasing his determination and discipline.
His tenure at bantamweight saw him become a formidable competitor, but Sterling is now ready to test his mettle against the elite of the featherweight class. He has set his sights on top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski, aiming to establish himself as a significant force to be reckoned with. Moreover, Sterling is planning an ambitious debut against none other than Max Holloway, a win against whom could catapult him into immediate title contention.
Industry Perspectives on Sterling's Weight Class Change
However, not everyone agrees with Sterling's decision to change divisions. Former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier has expressed his belief that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier suggests that fighters often switch weight classes in search of easier paths to success or when they encounter insurmountable challenges. "Those guys are big. He's a bit of a tweener... He has a good chance at winning enough fights to work his way back to a title fight. He has a better chance at 135 when he's undeniable again," Cormier commented, hinting at the potential difficulties Sterling may face among larger opponents in the featherweight division.
Despite these concerns, Sterling remains undeterred, citing his extensive experience in cutting weight and competing successfully across different levels from wrestling to MMA. "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," said Sterling, reflecting on his career-long practice of weight management.
Sterling's History and Future in Featherweight
This will not be Sterling's first foray into the featherweight category. He previously fought at this weight early in his career, securing a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 in 2011. Standing at 5'7", Sterling would be one of the smaller competitors in the UFC's featherweight roster, but his skillset and adaptability have been proven time and again throughout his career.
As he prepares for this next phase, Sterling appears open to timing his featherweight debut to coincide with a major event, potentially UFC 300, or eyeing a return in March. "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," Sterling speculated, teasing fans with the prospect of a blockbuster bout.
Aljamain Sterling's move to featherweight is a bold step that could redefine his legacy within the sport. As he embarks on this new journey, the MMA community will be watching closely to see if he can replicate his bantamweight success in the 145-pound division.