Aljamain Sterling portrays outstanding sportsmanship garnering "major respect" from fans following TKO defeat vs Sean O'Malley

In the latest title clash, Aljamain Sterling’s quest to establish himself as a bantamweight legend through four consecutive title defenses finally met an end. However, despite the defeat, The Funk Master won finally managed to achieve one thing that was relatively missing in his career, the respect of many fans owing to his sportsmanship!

Sean O’Malley, who had been often considered somewhat of an underdog owing to Aljo’s strong ground game, proved the naysayers wrong. In a swift technical knockout, Sugar declared the arrival of his era in the 135-lb division.

Aljamain lost the bout yet won millions of hearts

Sterling faced criticisms from the MMA community when he became champion through a controversial disqualification verdict in his clash with Petr Yan. This victory left many unconvinced of Aljo’s rightful claim to the title.

Aljamain Sterling gets choked up reflecting on how far he’s come in life. pic.twitter.com/KSEUrvQ95G

— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) August 20, 2023

Nonetheless, the Funk Master silenced some doubters by triumphing over Yan in a rematch, as well as securing wins against TJ Dillashaw and Henry Cejudo. With three successful title defenses, Sterling solidified his stature as a deserving bantamweight champ.

However, Aljo in his most recent defeat also managed to connect to fans in a profound way, thanks to his heartfelt post-fight interview with Joe Rogan. The 34-year-old fighter appreciated the effort put in by Suga Sean.

“Sean is a lot better than I thought. He did a great job being elusive and staying out the outside of the cage. Congrats to him.” Aljamain said.

I’m more than alright. I have everything I need right here! ❤️
•#UFCBoston pic.twitter.com/3iRhmOHmpK

— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) August 20, 2023

Aljamain Sterling’s TKO defeat vs Sean O’Malley at UFC 292

In the first round, both fighters were a little cautious with neither aggressively seeking takedowns nor aiming for knockdowns. Despite this, “The Funk Master,” exhibited a sense of attacking mindset in his actions, frequently directing his strikes towards O’Malley’s leg.

In contrast, Sugar displayed remarkable composure throughout the first round. However, it was the second round when Sterling decided to be a little offensive. In a display of swift precision, Sean capitalized on an opening, landing a devastatingly accurate punch that sent Sterling helplessly to the mat.

Taking advantage of the situation, O’Malley followed up with a series of forceful hammer fists, making the referee intervene and declare a technical knockout victory in favor of Sean O’Malley.