Sean O’Malley has paid tribute to his UFC292 opponent, labelling Aljamain Sterling as the ‘Bantamweight GOAT’.
In an interview with Bloody Elbow, O’Malley was very clear about what his route to victory would look like if he were to be successful against the greatest bantamweight of all time.
Sean O’Malley on Sterling and His Route to Victory
“I’m fighting a prime bantamweight GOAT right now. He’s the best bantamweight (the) UFC has ever had. He’s defended the belt more than anyone. He’s in his prime. He just beat Henry Cejudo, who’s a two-time division champion. So yeah, it’s an exciting, difficult challenge that I’m excited to go out there and compete.”
“My game plan’s no secret. I do not want him to grab a hold of me at all. He doesn’t grab me, I win the fight. He grabs me, you know, it’s not ideal. It’s not like I’m a white belt, or completely oblivious to what to do. He’s the best in the world at grappling. That’s what he does. He’s won the belt that way and he’s the best.”
“I’m not taking him lightly at all. I’m not underestimating him at all, but yeah, I’m confident. I’m excited to go in there. It’s the biggest test, the biggest challenge of my career.”
All quotes taken from MMA Junkie.
Is Aljo the Bantamweight GOAT?
It is difficult to argue with O’Malley‘s assessment of Sterling. Aljo comes into the bout on a nine fight winning streak. The reigning champion picked up the bantamweight title in controversial fashion against Petr Yan. Yan, who was winning the fight quite comfortably, made a catastrophic ‘heat of the moment’ mistake, kneeing Aljo whilst he was down on the canvas, an illegal move which saw him disqualified. This led to Aljo becoming the champion of the world. Aljo picked up a hostile reception over the coming weeks and months as he paraded his new champ status for all to see. Fans were not happy with Aljo’s approach and many turned on him.
Due to the circumstances surrounding his victory, the UFC announced that a rematch with Yan had been booked. In a complete 180 from the first fight, Aljo was magnificent. He beat Yan and left no doubt that he was the legitimate champion.
Since then, Aljo has had surgery on a shoulder injury that has plagued him for years and his performances are getting better each time. With his last two victories coming against former champions TJ Dillashaw and Henry Cejudo. Sterling also has an impressive win over top contender Cory Sandhagen.
Dominic Cruz
Whenever there is a conversation surrounding the bantamweight GOAT, Dominic Cruz will be a name on the tip of everybody’s lips. Cruz is the biggest competition for GOAT status with standout wins over Uriah Faber x 2, Demetrius Johnson and TJ Dillashaw.
Aljo to Move Up to Featherweight?
If Aljo is able to beat ‘Suga’ Sean O’Malley and add another top contender to his resume, Aljo will likely cement his status as the bantamweight GOAT. Sterling, has for some time talked about moving up in weight to challenge himself at featherweight. Most fans are expecting this bout to be his last at bantamweight as it is no secret that Aljo struggles to cut down to 135lb.
Should Aljo be victorious and vacate the belt, there is a lively division sitting below him who will be scrambling for a shot at the vacant belt. Aljo’s close friend Merab Dvalishvili is currently ranked number one and is likely to feature in any vacant title fight. His opponent would be expected to be either Henry Cejudo or Cory Sandhagen (ranked 3 and 4 respectively). Petr Yan and Chito Vera sit just below them and should Aljo move up, it will likely spring some extra life into the division with fresh opportunities for all involved.
Sterling Vs O’Malley
Sterling comes into his fourth defence off the back of a career best win against Henry Cejudo. O’Malley also comes into his first title opportunity off the back of a career best win over former champion Petr Yan. O’Malley will favour the fight on the feet with Aljo having a clear advantage on the mat. It will be interesting to see how these two styles gel and makes for an entertaining matchup.
Does Aljo defend the belt once more? Is he the bantamweight GOAT? Can Seann O’Malley cause an upset? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
