After a successful debut in the UFC featherweight division, Aljamain Sterling is considering potential match-ups against Brian Ortega or Movsar Evloev, while former champion Max Holloway is eyeing a fight with Ilia Topuria.
Aljamain Sterling’s shift to UFC featherweight was nothing short of dramatic. He picked a day that was anything but ordinary.
After nine years of being a top bantamweight, Sterling made his 145-pound debut at UFC 300. He dominated Calvin Kattar, winning by a wide margin. He hoped this victory would push him to the front of the line for a title shot in his new division.
But then, former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway stole the show. He delivered a last-second knockout of Justin Gaethje, earning the promotion’s ceremonial BMF title. It was the highlight of the year.
Holloway is now a top contender in both the featherweight and lightweight divisions. Sterling, despite his ambitions, had to give credit where it was due.
Sterling humorously recalled his reaction to the fight on The MMA Hour. He had been rooting for Justin, advising him not to go to the center. But Holloway’s victory was unexpected and impressive. Sterling had predicted Holloway would have the speed advantage, but Gaethje would hit harder.
Holloway’s clean hit on Gaethje’s chin was a sight to behold. Sterling empathized with Gaethje, knowing what it’s like to be face-down. He hoped Gaethje was okay and jokingly advised Holloway to stay in the 155-pound division.
With a title shot now unlikely, Sterling, 34, considered a potential matchup against Brian Ortega. He also entertained the idea of a grappler vs. grappler matchup against Movsar Evloev.
As for Holloway, he’s not paying much attention to Sterling’s advice. Post UFC 300, Holloway has been calling for a matchup with Ilia Topuria. He’s even traded shots with the UFC featherweight champ in interviews and on social media. Sterling finds this potential fight deeply intriguing.
Sterling believes Max’s footwork and strong chin make him a tricky opponent. But Ilia’s strategy of walking down his opponents until they’re close to the cage could pose a challenge. Sterling is unsure who he’d pick to win. He thinks if Ilia’s striking doesn’t work out, he could use his elite-level grappling to take Max Holloway down. That could be the difference in the fight.