Aljamain Sterling is fast approaching his official move up to featherweight but it could take place much sooner than expected.
‘Funk Master’ saw his bantamweight title reign come to an end last time out when he was knocked out by Sean O’Malley. Prior to the loss, the grappler hadn’t lost in almost six years and was on one of the best winning runs in the history of the division.
Since losing the belt, Sterling has been teasing a move up in weight to 145lbs and he may now have found his first opponent. Giga Chikadze, unfortunately, sustained an injury that has forced him out of his fight at UFC 296, and it seems the Jamaican is intrigued at the prospect of stepping in against Josh Emmett.
Giga’s Out ❌
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Who’s ready Dec 16th? #UFC296— JOSH EMMETT (@JoshEmmettUFC) December 4, 2023
Not only did Aljamain Sterling retweet Emmett’s post, but he also revealed his current walk-around weight which has raised speculation amongst fans.
I just weighed out at 166.6 lbs. #JustSaying #FeatherweightFunk
— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) December 5, 2023
If he does fill in for the injured Chikadze, Sterling has just 11 days to make weight before the fight gets underway. Emmett’s bout currently sits as the featured prelim but…
