Aljamain Sterling has been trying to solidify his position as a prominent bantamweight fighter, securing three successive title defenses. The reigning champ at 135 pounds has also garnered significant praise from his next opponent in the octagon, Sean O’Malley.
The upcoming UFC bantamweight title fight has already been marred by controversy. Initially, Aljamain expressed reluctance to fight against “Sugar” on such a short-notice. However, after some controversy, they are now set to face each other in just three days to settle the debate.
Sean O’Malley praises Aljamain Sterling
In a recent interview with ESPN shortly before the title fight, O’Malley openly conveyed his deep respect for The Funk Master. Sugar views Sterling as a prominent figure in the bantamweight division.
“Aljamain Sterling is the best Bantamweight the UFC has ever known. He’s in his prime. He’s 33, I think that’s pretty much prime age. All the male UFC champions are in their 30s. He’s the best grappler in the division. ” Sean said.
Sean O'Malley dubs Aljamain Sterling with GOAT status ahead of their title fight 🐐 #UFC292 | Full story: https://t.co/llfMF5DOYf pic.twitter.com/khXEFzEtif
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) August 15, 2023
Viewing himself as a striker and Sterling as a grappler, Sean envisions an enthralling encounter between these two distinct styles. The BJJ brown belt aims to enter the fight against Aljo as an underdog contender and replicate his previous success of defying expectations, much like he did in his bout against Petr Yan.
However, the current bantamweight title holder has promised to make O’Malley pay for all his remarks and taunts. Sterling declared he’s eagerly looking forward to channeling his frustration into the fight against O’Malley.
“I want to smash this guy’s face. I want to smash the ugly mole rat, the naked mole rat that he is. When I take this man down, that naked mole rat is getting smashed. Smashed.” Aljamain said.
Keeping the fight on the feet is the key to @SugaSeanMMA’s gameplan 🚫🤼♂️ #UFC292 pic.twitter.com/mbRMSN4j6J
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) August 14, 2023
Aljamain Sterling’s title defense record
Set to take place at Boston’s TD Garden on Saturday, August 19, 2023, Sterling will go head-to-head with Sean O’Malley in the main event of UFC 292. As the reigning champion, Sterling is ready to defend his title for the fourth time.
Despite multiple times proving himself as a dominant force in the bantamweight division, The Funk Master still faces criticism from his doubters. According to Sterling, his recent victories over fighters like Petr Yan, TJ Dillashaw, and Henry Cejudo have earned him the right to demand greater respect.
After three successful title defenses, the New Yorker has undeniably solidified his status as one of the top bantamweight competitors in the UFC. Yet, despite his achievements, Sterling feels that he doesn’t receive adequate recognition.
It's #UFC292 Fight Week!!
🏆 Aljamain Sterling vs Sean O'Malley
🏆 Zhang Weili vs Amanda Lemos pic.twitter.com/AJSp5ypcqF— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) August 14, 2023
Do you think Sean O’Malley will be able to snatch the gold strap from Aljamain Sterling’s possession or Sterling will be able to defend his title once again? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
