Aljamain Sterling, the reigning UFC bantamweight champion, has expressed his belief that a victory at UFC Vegas 116 could propel him into contention for a superfight against featherweight kingpin Alexander Volkanovski.
Sterling, who is currently sidelined with a neck injury, stated that he is targeting a return to the octagon in late 2023 or early 2024. He sees a dominant performance in his next outing as the most effective way to capture the attention of UFC matchmakers and fans alike, positioning him as a viable challenger for Volkanovski’s 145-pound strap.
“If I go out there and put on a spectacular performance, something undeniable, then I think the UFC will have a hard time saying no,” Sterling told reporters. “Volkanovski is on a legendary run, and to be considered among the pound-for-pound best, you have to challenge yourself against the best. I believe I’m one of the best, and I want to prove it on the biggest stage.”
The potential clash between Sterling and Volkanovski has been a hot topic among MMA enthusiasts, with many speculating about the stylistic matchups and the potential for a truly historic bout. Sterling’s elite grappling and relentless pressure could pose a unique threat to Volkanovski’s striking prowess and championship pedigree.
While Volkanovski has his own set of challenges ahead, including potential defenses against other top featherweights, Sterling’s ambitious pursuit of the Australian phenom highlights his desire to cement his legacy as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.