Read about UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling’s controversial decision to fight Sean O’Malley at UFC 292. Despite his reservations, Sterling felt compelled to accept the match.
| Key Points |
|---|
| Aljamain Sterling is preparing for a quick turnaround after a series of title defenses. |
| Sterling expressed frustration with the UFC’s ability to pressure fighters into accepting fights. |
| Despite a strained relationship, Sterling will be fighting Sean O’Malley at UFC 292. |
After opening his account for the year in May, UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling is gearing up for a quick turnaround. Following a pair of title defenses against Petr Yan and TJ Dillashaw in 2022, Sterling added returning former two-division champ Henry Cejudo to his list of vanquished challengers in the UFC 288 main event. Almost immediately, ‘Funk Master’ had his next fight set, with the UFC outlining its intention to put Sean O’Malley in front of Sterling at the UFC 292 pay-per-view in Boston on August 19.
Sterling’s Fight Preparation
During a podcast episode with prominent mixed martial arts coach Eric Nicksick, Sterling discussed the extensive preparation he puts into each fight. He highlighted the mental toll it takes and the need for decompression after battles. Despite his desire to take a break, Sterling felt compelled to fight again, even though it goes against his will.
The UFC’s Influence
Sterling expressed frustration with the UFC’s ability to make fighters do things they may not want to do. He acknowledged that the promotion has ways to pressure fighters into accepting fights, even if they have injuries or personal reservations. While the relationship between Sterling and the UFC has been strained, the bantamweight champ remains focused on his upcoming fight on August 19.
Conclusion
Aljamain Sterling’s decision to fight Sean O’Malley at UFC 292 has been met with controversy. Despite his desire to take a break and recover from his previous fights, Sterling felt compelled to accept the match. The UFC’s influence on fighters and the strained relationship between Sterling and the promotion adds an additional layer of intrigue to the upcoming bout.
