Sterling Was Offered a Fighter for the Featherweight: "I Only Want the Number One"

• UFC

After the disheartening loss of his bantamweight title at UFC 292 this summer, Aljamain Sterling finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating the uncertain path that lies ahead. While he initially declared his intent to venture into the featherweight category, his aspirations of facing Alexander Volkanovski for a shot at redemption were swiftly dampened by the realities of the aftermath of his defeat.

However, despite the tempting offer, Sterling remains cautious about making an immediate move to the featherweight division. His decision not to accept the bout against Kattar stems from personal connections with two of the other potential opponents and a strategic mindset.

As he expressed on his YouTube channel, "I like Kattar, but I'm not going to go up and try there now. If I were to go up, I wouldn't come at number two. If I were to come, only number one comes into question. That's what I have to take care of now." Sterling's judicious approach adds a layer of anticipation to his future endeavors in the ever-dynamic world of mixed martial arts.

Despite expressing his admiration for Kattar, Sterling made it clear that he is not prepared to make the leap just yet. He articulated, "I like Kattar, but I'm not going to go up and try there now. If I were to go up, I wouldn't come at number two.

If I were to come, only number one comes into question. That's what I have to take care of now." As Sterling contemplates his next move, it becomes evident that he is biding his time in the featherweight division, with the lingering hope that the UFC will afford him another opportunity to vie for the bantamweight title.

While the prospect may seem dim for now, Sterling remains steadfast in his belief that in the unpredictable world of mixed martial arts, anything can transpire. The uncertainty surrounding his future adds an intriguing layer to Sterling's narrative, leaving fans and pundits alike eagerly anticipating the unfolding chapters in the fighter's journey.

Sterling never chose opponents or matches, so he probably deserved the UFC to fulfill his wish, but in the end it will be decided by the UFC management.