Aljamain Sterling's Featherweight Aspirations
In a surprising turn of events, former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has announced his decision to move up a weight class and compete in the featherweight division. This significant career move was revealed during his appearance on the Mighty Podcast, hosted by none other than mixed martial arts (MMA) legend Demetrious Johnson.
Weight Management and Health
Known for his rigorous weight cuts, Sterling has previously tipped the scales at around 180 pounds outside of competition—a weight he admits wasn't his healthiest form. "I've been 180, a little heavier than 180. It's not a good, healthy 180, but I could get up there," Sterling confessed. In stark contrast to his past struggles with weight, he now maintains a healthier physique at approximately 170-171 pounds, a regimen that seems to be paying off. "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," he shared.
Despite the challenges, Sterling has consistently managed to make the bantamweight limit, even though he stands 26.7 percent over the weight class limit when compared to his peers. His dedication to making weight is unwavering: "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," Sterling stated, brushing off any skepticism regarding his commitment to the sport.
Looking Forward to New Challenges
The decision to change divisions comes after a setback for Sterling, who lost his bantamweight title to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292. Before this loss, Sterling had been on an impressive nine-fight winning streak, including three title defenses. Now, setting his sights on the featherweight class, Sterling is eager to test himself against the division's best, expressing a desire to square off with top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski.
Sterling's featherweight debut is expected to be a high-profile affair as he plans to face former champion Max Holloway. A victory over Holloway would not only be a statement win but could also catapult Sterling into immediate title contention within the 145-pound ranks.
Industry Perspectives
While Sterling is confident in his new path, some voices in the MMA community have expressed reservations. Notably, Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion, has suggested that Sterling should remain at 135 pounds. Cormier posits that fighters typically change weight classes in search of easier paths to success or when they encounter insurmountable challenges. "I think he should stay at 135," Cormier opined, adding, "Those guys are big. He's a bit of a tweener... is 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."
At 5'7", Sterling would indeed be one of the smaller competitors in the featherweight category, potentially facing a reach and size disadvantage against larger opponents. However, this isn't uncharted territory for Sterling, who won by TKO in his sole featherweight bout at Cage Fury FC 10 back in 2011.
Sterling's Confidence Unshaken
Undeterred by the concerns regarding his size, Sterling remains steadfast in his decision. With a history of competing—and succeeding—at different levels from wrestling through to college and professional MMA, he trusts in his ability to adapt and overcome. "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 remarked, highlighting his resilience and competitive spirit.
As for his next fight, Sterling hinted at a potential return at a landmark event. "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 said, leaving fans speculating on the timing of his featherweight debut.
With a new division and renewed vigor, Aljamain Sterling's career is poised for its next chapter. Whether he will replicate his bantamweight success at featherweight remains to be