Aljamain Sterling vs Renan Barao — Fight recap

Aljamain Sterling defeated Renan Barao via unanimous decision over three rounds on July 29, 2017, with referee Herb Dean officiating. Sterling's striking efficiency proved decisive, landing 71 of 121 significant strikes (58%) while Barao managed only 19 of 85 (22%), a stark differential that reflected Sterling's control of the striking exchanges.

Sterling landed 41 head strikes and 15 leg kicks with precision, while securing 5:40 of control time despite converting his only takedown attempt. Barao's wrestling produced limited offensive output, landing just 2 of 3 takedowns while accumulating 4:33 of control time.

Sterling's superior striking volume and accuracy, combined with effective leg kick deployment and cage control, earned him all three rounds on the scorecards. The victory positioned Sterling as a rising threat in the bantamweight division and set the stage for higher-ranked competition.