A New Challenge: Aljamain Sterling Moves to Featherweight
In a significant shift in his mixed martial arts career, former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced a move to the featherweight division. This revelation came during an appearance on the Mighty Podcast hosted by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson. Known for his dynamic fighting style and impressive grappling skills, Sterling's decision to change weight classes has sent ripples through the fighting community.
Weighty Decisions
Aljamain Sterling is no stranger to drastic weight fluctuations. The fighter has previously tipped the scales at 180 pounds when not actively competing. However, he maintains a healthier current weight of around 170-171 pounds, which he feels is optimal for his performance. "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there," Sterling admitted, acknowledging the challenges of such weight management. He added, "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."
Despite the difficulty, Sterling has always managed to make weight, even though he is 26.7 percent over the weight class limit 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 said. His commitment to competing at the highest level remains unwavering: "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."
Recent Setbacks and Future Aspirations
The decision to move up in weight comes on the heels of Sterling losing his bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292. Prior to this loss, Sterling had secured a nine-fight winning streak, including three title defenses. Despite this setback, Sterling has set his sights on top featherweight contenders, expressing a desire to fight champions like Alexander Volkanovski and planning to face Max Holloway in his debut at 145 pounds. A victory against a fighter of Holloway's caliber could quickly establish Sterling as a significant contender in the featherweight ranks.
Industry Perspectives
Not everyone agrees with Sterling's decision to move up a weight class. Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion and respected commentator, believes Sterling should remain at bantamweight. Cormier reasons that fighters often switch weight classes when they encounter obstacles or struggle to find success. "I think he should stay at 135," Cormier stated. "Those guys are big. He's a bit of a tweener... too big. 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." Nonetheless, Sterling's history in the featherweight division is marked by success; he won by TKO at Cage Fury FC 10 in 2011, showing he can indeed compete at this level.
At 5'7", Sterling would be among the smaller fighters in the UFC featherweight division, but this is not a deterrent for him. "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," Sterling reflected on his approach to competition and weight management throughout his career.
Looking Ahead
As for what's next, Sterling hinted at potential timelines for his featherweight debut. "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," he mused, suggesting that fans may not have to wait long to see him compete at his new weight class.
Aljamain Sterling's transition to featherweight is a bold move that showcases his willingness to adapt and overcome challenges. While opinions may vary on whether this is the right step, Sterling's track record suggests that he is more than capable of making a significant impact. His first few fights at 145 pounds will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as they will determine whether this weight class change will lead to a resurgence in