Sterling: “I’m just saying if you want to insert yourself into the next title shot to fight for the vacant title after I’m done mopping up O’Malley.
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The current bantamweight champion, Aljamain Sterling, openly conveyed his disappointment with Cory Sandhagen’s recent performance at UFC Nashville. In a bout that held high anticipation, Sandhagen stunned observers by embracing a wrestle-heavy approach, deviating from his usual reliance on striking prowess. This unexpected strategy took centre stage in the main event, pitting Sandhagen against fellow striker Rob Font.
Sandhagen employed a consistent takedown strategy throughout the five rounds, resulting in a decisive victory by unanimous decision. However, this approach may not have been the most thrilling spectacle for fans. Although Sterling recognized the effectiveness of Sandhagen’s tactic, he expressed criticism towards both fighters for the lack of excitement displayed during their performance.
On his YouTube channel, Sterling expresses surprise at how the fight is unfolding. He expected a more dynamic and aggressive performance, especially from Font. Sterling highlights Font’s weaknesses in grappling, pointing out his struggles to defend takedowns or escape from the ground during the contest.
Taking into consideration the circumstances surrounding the fight, Sterling factored in its hasty arrangement due to Umar Nurmagomedov’s injury-induced withdrawal. This led to Sandhagen stepping in as the headliner. Despite Sandhagen emerging victorious, Sterling cast doubt on whether it would secure him a title shot. Although Sandhagen has clinched three consecutive wins, bouncing back from losses against former champions Petr Yan and T.J. Dillashaw, his performance failed to leave an impression on Sterling.
When discussing their game approach, Sterling drew parallels to his own wrestling-based game plan and accentuated the criticism that he and teammate Merab Dvalishvili frequently face. He issued a call for a reassessment of how their strategies are perceived, particularly when compared to Sandhagen’s recent approach.
While Sandhagen’s cautious approach may have been strategically wise, Sterling emphasized the crucial need to eliminate any doubt when competing for a title opportunity. With his own title defence against Sean O’Malley set for UFC 292, Sterling highlighted the undeniable importance of not only securing victory but doing so emphatically.
For more UFC news and updates
Read: UFC 291: Preview, Prediction, Fight Card, Where to Watch, Venue, and Tickets
Read: UFC 291 results: Justin Gaethje claims BMF title with stunning knockout victory Over Dustin Poirier
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