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Aljamain Sterling Set to Debut in New Weight Class at UFC 300 Prelims
As anticipation builds for the upcoming UFC 300 card this Saturday, one of the intriguing storylines on the preliminary card is the debut of Aljamain Sterling in a new weight class. Having relinquished his bantamweight title last summer after a knockout loss to Sean O’Malley at UFC 292, Sterling now prepares to make his mark at 145 pounds.
Reflecting on his decision to move up a weight class, Sterling shared insights on his physical and mental readiness for the change. In a recent interview with The JD Bunkis Podcast, Sterling expressed excitement about the transition, citing the toll that the weight cut to 135 pounds had taken on him over the years. Despite maintaining a facade of readiness at bantamweight, Sterling revealed internal struggles with the weight cut, pointing to 145 pounds as a potential arena to showcase his full potential in the cage.
Struggles and Redemption for Sterling
With a professional record of 23-4, Sterling’s defeat to O’Malley marked the end of a impressive nine-fight winning streak. Acknowledging the impact of age on his ability to make the bantamweight limit, Sterling, at 34 years old, recognized the shift in his body composition and weight management post-fight. The move to featherweight now presents an opportunity for Sterling to utilize his frame efficiently at 145 pounds.
Meanwhile, Sterling’s opponent at the UFC 300 prelims, Calvin Kattar, returns to action following an 18-month hiatus due to a knee injury sustained in 2022. A proficient striker, Kattar faces the challenge of securing a victory after having lost three of his last four fights against elite featherweight competitors. The matchup against an established contender like Kattar offers Sterling the prospect of ascending the featherweight rankings with a statement win at UFC 300.
As fight night approaches, all eyes will be on Aljamain Sterling as he ventures into uncharted territory at 145 pounds, eager to showcase his skills and adaptability in his new weight class.
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