What's Happening?
Aljamain Sterling emerged victorious in his fight against Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai, securing a unanimous decision win. Despite the victory, Sterling revealed he sustained a significant injury during the match. The injury occurred when Sterling landed a spinning elbow on Ortega in the fourth round, which left him unable to properly defend himself. Sterling's performance was criticized for being passive, as he primarily relied on jabs and movement rather than his usual wrestling-heavy approach. Following the fight, Sterling expressed his desire for a featherweight title shot against Alexander Volkanovski, although Lerone Murphy is currently the top contender.
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Why It's Important?
Sterling's injury could impact his future fights and his ability to compete at the highest level. His call for a title fight against Volkanovski highlights the competitive nature of the featherweight division, where contenders are vying for a chance at the championship. Sterling's approach in the fight, which drew criticism from fans, may influence his strategy in future bouts. The injury also raises questions about his readiness to face top-tier opponents, potentially affecting his standing in the division.
What's Next?
Sterling's next steps may involve recovery from his injury and reassessment of his strategy in the octagon. While he has expressed interest in a title fight, it is uncertain if he will be prioritized over other contenders like Lerone Murphy and Movsar Evloev. Discussions have been ongoing about a potential matchup with Arnold Allen, which could be a viable option for Sterling as he navigates his path in the featherweight division.
