Aljamain Sterling returns to action this weekend determined to reassert himself among the elite at featherweight. The former bantamweight champion, who hasn’t competed since a close decision loss to Movsar Evloev last December, faces Brian Ortega in the co-main event of UFC Shanghai. For Sterling, the matchup offers both a fresh opportunity and the kind of high-profile opponent that can push him closer to a title shot at 145 pounds
Sterling, who already owns a featherweight win over Calvin Kattar, views Ortega as the right challenge at the right time. “He’s ranked in the top five and it’s the only fight that makes sense,” Sterling said during fight week. “If I beat him, I’m right there—one step away, maybe even next for the belt.”
The fight will be held at a catchweight of 153 pounds, marking only the second time in Sterling’s career that he competes outside of the United States. He welcomes the chance to perform on the international stage inside Shanghai Indoor Stadium and believes Ortega’s skillset makes for an exciting clash.
Known for his durability and elite submission game, Ortega enters the bout seeking redemption after a loss to Diego Lopes at Noche UFC last September. Sterling acknowledged Ortega’s strengths, praising his boxing and grappling while stressing the importance of fighting smart, dictating the tempo, and pressing with his usual pace and wrestling.
With both fighters renowned for their ground abilities—Ortega with eight career submission wins, Sterling never having been submitted—the matchup promises tactical grappling sequences alongside striking exchanges. However, Sterling insists his main focus is controlling every round and reminding fans that he still belongs in the title conversation.
“I’m here to make a statement,” Sterling said. “People need to know I’m still in this division to become champion. I’ve been a champion before, and I want gold again. I’m still here.”
