Aljamain Sterling is acutely aware of the looming threat that Ilia Topuria poses to the entire division, including himself.
In a stunning upset, Topuria (15-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) claimed the featherweight title by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 this past Saturday.
Despite primarily showcasing his boxing skills during his remarkable UFC journey, Topuria’s initial seven professional victories all came via submission, showcasing his versatility and proficiency across multiple disciplines.
Expressing his thoughts on his YouTube channel, Sterling (23-4 MMA, 15-4 UFC), a former bantamweight champion, contemplates his own transition to featherweight as he prepares to face Calvin Kattar at UFC 300 on April 13.
With Topuria effortlessly brushing aside the division’s established contenders, Sterling sees himself as a potential fresh challenge for the champion if he secures victory against Kattar.
However, Sterling is under no illusions about the daunting task ahead. He acknowledges the formidable nature of Topuria’s skill set, recognizing the significant challenge posed to any potential opponent, including himself.
Reflecting on the prospect of facing Topuria, Sterling admits, “It’s a tough matchup for anybody – even for me if I had the opportunity to fight him.” Contemplating his future in the division, he speculates on potential scenarios, emphasizing the need to remain grounded in reality amidst the allure of new opportunities.
“I’m looking at it like, I’ve got my work cut out for me. That’s not an easy fight,” Sterling concedes. “That’s just being as honest as it is. I know I can punch, but it’s not how hard you can hit, sometimes you’ve got to be able to take that back.”
In Sterling’s eyes, Topuria’s ascent represents a formidable challenge that demands respect and preparation from anyone aiming to contend for the featherweight crown.
