Funk Master
Aljamain Sterling
Career overview
Aljamain Sterling, fighting out of an orthodox stance, holds a 26-5 professional record and has posted a 7-1 mark across his eight most recent outings. The 5'7" bantamweight operates as a volume grappler with strong wrestling credentials, averaging 2.54 takedowns per 15 minutes while landing 4.26 strikes per minute with 52% accuracy.
Sterling's takedown defense sits at 44%, indicating willingness to engage in exchanges, and he averages 0.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes, showcasing submission acumen when opportunities arise. Recent victories underscore his championship-caliber performances: a split-decision win over Henry Cejudo in May 2023, a second-round TKO of TJ Dillashaw in October 2022, and a first-round submission of Cory Sandhagen in June 2020.
His most notable setback came via split decision against Bryan Caraway in May 2016. Sterling absorbed 2.15 strikes per minute while defending 59% of incoming strikes throughout his career, a defensive profile that reflects his technical approach to fighting.
Currently unranked at the bantamweight division, Sterling remains a formidable contender despite recent inactivity.