Brian Ortega vs. Aljamain Sterling: Fight Now Set for 155 Pounds
UPDATE: A significant shift is underway in the highly anticipated featherweight matchup between Brian Ortega and Aljamain Sterling, set for UFC Fight Night on Saturday, September 30, 2023, in Shanghai. The fight will now take place at the 155-pound lightweight limit, as both fighters weighed in at 153 pounds on Friday.
This urgent change comes as both fighters aim to solidify their standings in the UFC. The UFC has not disclosed the reason for the weight class switch, although sources indicate that Ortega has struggled with the featherweight limit of 145 pounds and has been considering a permanent move to lightweight.
The non-title bout will serve as the co-main event at the Mercedes-Benz Arena and is scheduled for five rounds. Aljamain Sterling, a former 135-pound champion, is looking to reclaim championship status after moving up from bantamweight following his loss to Sean O’Malley in August 2019. Currently, Sterling holds a record of 1-1 in the lightweight division, with his sole loss coming against No. 1-ranked contender Movsar Evloev in December.
Meanwhile, Brian Ortega finds himself in a challenging position, holding a record of 1-3 in his last four appearances, with two losses sustained against elite fighters—undisputed champion Alexander Volkanovski and interim champion Yair Rodriguez. This fight is crucial for both fighters as they seek to enhance their legacies and pursue championship aspirations.
As the fight clock counts down, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an explosive clash between these two determined athletes. The stakes are high, and with a new weight class, the dynamics of this encounter are set to shift dramatically.
Stay tuned for real-time updates as this story develops and be prepared for a thrilling showdown at UFC Fight Night this Saturday!
