The Ultimate Fighting Championship has publicized the initial notable contests to inaugurate their freshly forged arrangement with Paramount, and it seemed not to resonate favorably with Aljamain Sterling. The former bantamweight titleholder’s sentiment appears to mirror an increasing perception concerning the UFC’s matchmaking, which is viewed as less impactful compared to its past reputation.
The commencement of this specific discussion transpired when the well-known media figure, Ariel Helwani, utilized his personal X account to share his reflections on certain publicized matches for UFC 324. Helwani remarked,
“The next occasion someone informs you that we orchestrate the finest fights, bear in mind this instant: 1. Gaethje/Paddy with Arman ready 2. Volk/Diego with Movsar and Lerone ready 3. Islam/Usman (presumably) with Shavkat, Morales, Prates, Garry all ready And an interim title fight – not featuring the top contender – over one of the best female fights ever.”
In his reaction to the seasoned combat sports journalist’s assessment of the January 2026 UFC event, encompassing Justin Gaethje versus Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title and a bantamweight title showdown featuring Kayla Harrison’s return against Amanda Nunes, Sterling articulated,
“It’s undoubtedly not what it once represented. I stand by the organization; however, this situation is incredibly disheartening! I comprehend their viewpoint; however, cease proclaiming that we provide the enthusiasts with the battles they wish to witness and that we orchestrate the FINEST fight between the BEST! This occurs more frequently now and is exceedingly challenging to disregard, particularly within your respective weight division.”
Aljamain Sterling also expresses reservations regarding the UFC 325 lineup
Aljamain Sterling also openly criticized the UFC 325 main event, concentrating on a contest intrinsically linked to his chosen weight category. Considering Sterling’s status as a ranked 145-pound competitor, it is reasonable for him to offer his perspective on the forthcoming featherweight championship bout. Sterling conveys his lack of enthusiasm for Alexander Volkanovski’s initial title defense against the individual from whom he secured the championship.
The proposed Volkanovski versus Diego Lopes 2 encounter has elicited numerous adverse responses, and Sterling utilized his personal X account to address the January 31st main event in Sydney, stating,
“I concur with Lerone [Murphy]. Even if I did not obtain it, either him or Movsar [Evloev] should have undeniably been the selected contender. Movsar was previously bypassed by Lopes, and he is granted another shot at the championship, lol. Acknowledge Lopes’ accomplishments, but you can comprehend why individuals might begin to lose enthusiasm for the sport. It’s a harsh reality.”
Sterling acknowledged his former adversary Movsar Evloev, following the latter’s victory over Sterling via unanimous decision at UFC 310.
