Aljamain Sterling, a prominent figure in the UFC, recently made headlines as he expresses his concerns regarding the decision to make his upcoming co-main event fight against Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai a five-round bout. Sterling, a former UFC bantamweight champion, is approaching this matchup with a mix of anticipation and frustration, particularly about the extended fight duration without additional compensation.
As Sterling prepares to face Ortega—a fighter with a storied history and a reputation as a two-time featherweight title challenger—the underlying issue of the fight’s length has sparked discussion among fans and analysts alike. Typically, co-main events are structured as three-round contests, unless otherwise specified. The announcement that this specific fight will extend to five rounds raised questions about the rationale and implications of such an arrangement.
Sterling voiced his confusion during a recent interview with MMA Fighting, stating, “I don’t know why it’s five rounds.” His remarks highlight an issue that resonates with fighters across the UFC landscape: fairness in compensation corresponding to time and effort. Sterling elaborated on his concerns, questioning whether Ortega was the one who requested the five-round format and why both fighters were expected to engage in what he considers an extraordinary length for a non-title fight without a notable increase in pay.
The former champion’s comments underscore the financial structure related to fight duration in the UFC. Typically, five-round main events afford fighters an extra pay incentive, which Sterling believes should have applied in this case as well. He stated, “I’m like, ‘Did he want to fight five rounds for no extra money?’ I think it’s kind of f*cking stupid.” This sentiment illustrates a broader concern that many fighters share; the need for equitable treatment and remuneration based on the demands placed on them.
Sterling’s recent fight history adds to the complexity surrounding his feelings about the upcoming match. After suffering a title loss to Sean O’Malley at UFC 292 in August 2023, Sterling has bounced back with fights in the featherweight division, where he has faced tough competition, including Calvin Kattar and Movsar Evloev. As he steps into the octagon for what he describes as a significant and potentially pivotal showdown against Ortega, Sterling’s focus is on performance, yet he cannot overlook the financial implications.
He admits to contemplating the fight’s five-round format, questioning why he would train harder and fight longer without a corresponding increase in his fight purse. The concern is compounded by personal factors as well, including Sterling’s upcoming wedding, which adds an emotional layer to his desire for fair compensation. “I’m training hard, you know? I got a big wedding coming up. A little extra bonus would be nice,” he expressed, revealing the human side behind the profession.
For Ortega, this fight is equally crucial as he seeks to reclaim his footing in the competitive featherweight landscape. With a challenging record over his last few bouts, the importance of this meeting is acute for him as well. Sterling acknowledged the importance of the fight for both himself and Ortega, considering it a ‘crossroads fight’ with implications for their careers moving forward. “I don’t want to say this is a make it or break it fight for me, but I’m not interested in fighting up and coming contenders just for a paycheck,” he said.
Such a mindset indicates Sterling’s desire not only for success but for a legacy that transcends mere financial gain. Fighters often grapple with the duality of seeking personal rewards while trying to maintain a competitive edge and integrity in their careers. Sterling’s thoughts on the stakes involved reflect a broader concern that many professionals share: the challenge of balancing career longevity, reputation, and financial stability.
As the featherweight division continues to evolve with notable fighters like Alexander Volkanovski reclaiming the title and emerging competitors like Lerone Murphy making waves, Sterling is also thinking strategically about his position. “This is a huge fight,” he asserted, understanding the array of future opportunities that could present themselves based on the outcome.
Preparation and mindset play critical roles in a fighter’s success, and Sterling’s approach seems grounded in both competition and pragmatism. While he remains realistic about the challenges he might face in the octagon, he exudes confidence in his ability to compete effectively against Ortega. “I’m still kicking young guys’ asses, so that makes me feel good,” he stated, reinforcing his commitment to excellence regardless of age or perceived disadvantages.
The upcoming bout between Sterling and Ortega at UFC Shanghai promises to be electrifying, underpinning the complexity of fighter motivations, the challenges of navigating their careers within the UFC, and the ongoing conversations about pay and compensation in combat sports. As this narrative unfolds, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely—not only for the fight itself but for the broader implications it has for the fighters themselves, paving the way for deeper discussions about fairness, recognition, and the evolution of the sport.
Sterling’s candid remarks provide insight into a fighter’s psyche, exemplifying the practical concerns that exist behind the adrenaline-fueled façade of the UFC. As the fight approaches, it remains to be seen whether these underlying issues will resonate further within the organization, ultimately influencing how fighters are compensated for their efforts in the competitive landscape of mixed martial arts.
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