Aljamain Sterling's Divisional Leap
In a surprising turn of events, Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision 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 (MMA) legend Demetrious Johnson. The former bantamweight champion, known for his agility and technical prowess inside the Octagon, is taking a bold step in a new weight class where he will confront new challenges and potentially larger opponents.
The Weight of Change
Sterling’s history with weight has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike. Having previously reached as much as 180 pounds outside of competition, he currently maintains a healthier weight of around 170-171 pounds. His comfort at this weight suggests a readiness for the featherweight division, despite the fact that it places him approximately 26.7 percent over the bantamweight limit—a significant margin when compared to his peers in the category.
However, his recent loss of the bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292 might have influenced his decision. Before this defeat, Sterling was riding high on a nine-fight winning streak, which included three defenses of his title. It's possible that this setback prompted a reevaluation of his career trajectory.
Aiming for Featherweight Gold
Despite the concerns about his size in the new division, standing at 5'7", Sterling is already setting his sights on top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski. He has even expressed his intention to face former champion Max Holloway in what would be a highly anticipated featherweight debut. A victory over a competitor of Holloway's caliber could immediately propel Sterling into title contention, signaling that he remains a force to be reckoned with, irrespective of the weight class.
Cormier’s Cautionary Perspective
Not everyone is convinced that Sterling's move is the right one. Former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier has voiced his opinion that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier suggests that athletes often switch weight classes in response to difficulties or a lack of success, which may not be the case for Sterling given his track record. He believes that Sterling's chances of regaining a title are more favorable in the bantamweight division, where he has already proven himself to be a formidable competitor.
Cormier's advice comes from a place of experience, understanding the complexities and risks involved in changing divisions. Yet, Sterling's previous stint at featherweight, albeit early in his career with a TKO victory at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011, provides a glimmer of past success in the heavier weight class.
Sterling's Confidence in His Decision
For Sterling, this move is about more than just seeking new opportunities; it's about embracing a competitive spirit that has been with him since his wrestling days. "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 reflects on his career thus far. His dedication to making weight and competing at the highest level is evident, and he remains unfazed by the critics who question his decision.
He acknowledges the physical demands of his sport, stating, "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there." But now, finding himself in a healthier state, he feels ready to take on the featherweight division: "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."
As for his potential return to the Octagon, Sterling hinted at a major event to mark 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 suggested, indicating his willingness to make his next fight a memorable one.
Whether Sterling's gamble pays off will be a subject of great interest in the MMA community. His transition to featherweight will test his adaptability and resolve, but if history is any indicator, Sterling is not one to shy away from a challenge. With his eyes firmly set on the prize, the MMA world waits with