Aljamain Sterling is known in the MMA world as "Funk Master" and had his eyes set on vacating his bantamweight title and moving
Aljamain Sterling is known in the MMA world as “Funk Master” and had his eyes set on vacating his bantamweight title and moving to the featherweight division following a victory over Sean O’Malley. However, that plan took an unexpected turn when O’Malley achieved kingpin status with a spectacular TKO victory over Sterling in the pay-per-view main event at UFC 292 in Boston. With Sterling’s desire for a rematch burning, the question arises “Does he deserve an immediate chance at redemption?”
Sterling’s reign as the bantamweight champion began in early 2021 and was characterized by dominance, record-breaking performances, and an impressive title defense streak. Pre-fight, “Funk Master” had outlined his intentions to vacate the belt and pursue a new challenge in the featherweight division. But O’Malley’s explosive performance thwarted those plans.
Despite his achievements in the weight class over the past few years. It seems that Sterling may not receive an immediate opportunity for a rematch. One fellow former UFC champion Jamahal Hill strongly disagrees with this decision. Hill questioned how Sterling’s calls for a rematch could be snubbed given his remarkable record as the bantamweight champion.
“I think it should be Aljo,” Hill said during a recent interview with The Schmo. “I think Aljo should get the rematch. Who’s defended the bantamweight belt as many times as he has consecutively? I think he has the most consecutive bantamweight defenses of all time. He beat four different champions. He was what you’d consider a dominant champion in his reign. Definitely arguably the GOAT of the division.”
Hill’s sentiments reflect the sentiment of many MMA enthusiasts who believe that Sterling’s accomplishments in the bantamweight division warrant another shot at O’Malley. Sterling’s reign was marked by consistently strong performances against top-tier opponents, making him a legitimate contender for a rematch.
The debate over Sterling’s rematch request has also fueled discussions about potential challengers. Should Sterling’s desire to run it back with O’Malley not come to fruition, he has endorsed teammate Merab Dvalishvili as a deserving challenger. Dvalishvili has been vocal about his aspirations to compete for the title, and Sterling’s support has added weight to his case.
For more UFC news and updates
Read: UFC Fight Night 224 results: Tom Aspinall’s stunning TKO victory
Read: UFC Fight Night 224: Preview, Prediction, Where to Watch, Venue, and Tickets
Get the latest from Sportslumo.com by following us on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube
Follow Us
