What's Happening?
Aljamain Sterling has expressed dissatisfaction with the decision to schedule his fight against Brian Ortega for five rounds at the upcoming UFC Shanghai event, without an increase in pay. Sterling, a former UFC bantamweight champion, is set to fight Ortega on August 23 in China. Despite not being the main event, the fight has been booked for the 'championship rounds,' which Sterling finds unreasonable given the lack of additional compensation. He has been vocal about fighter pay and is questioning the rationale behind the decision, emphasizing the extra effort required for a five-round fight.
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Why It's Important?
Sterling's comments highlight ongoing concerns about fighter compensation in the UFC, a topic that has been debated within the MMA community. The issue of fighter pay is crucial as it affects the livelihoods and career decisions of athletes. Sterling's stance may resonate with other fighters who feel underpaid, potentially leading to increased pressure on the UFC to reevaluate its pay structure. This situation also underscores the challenges fighters face in negotiating fair terms, especially when participating in high-profile events.
What's Next?
Sterling's remarks could prompt discussions within the UFC regarding fighter pay and contract terms, especially for non-main event fights scheduled for five rounds. If more fighters join Sterling in advocating for better compensation, the UFC may need to address these concerns to maintain its roster of talent. Fans and media will likely continue to scrutinize the UFC's handling of fighter contracts, which could influence future negotiations and event planning.
