Jamaican UFC fighter Aljamain Sterling crowned himself the undisputed bantamweight champion, after defeating former title holder Petr Yan in their recent Championship bout at UFC 273 in Jacksonville, Florida.
Sterling beat his Russian opponent 48-47 48-47 and 48-46 for a split decision victory.
The fight which was a highly anticipated rematch between the saw Sterling emerge as the undisputed champion. Not only due to his successful defense, but having won through a clear-cut decision after the previous meeting between the two ended in disqualification
Sterling being awarded the belt after Yan was disqualified for kicking Sterling with an Illegal Knee to head during the match. A Result which was marred by some who were criticizing of the legitimacy of the win.
Criticisms which would been put under submission after Sterling’s display of power and technique to overpower and out fight his opponent.
“I knew I needed to make this a grappling fight and keep him guessing,” Sterling said in his recap. “If I stopped shooting, it would have been an open season for him to turn this into a striking match and stand up and trade.
Adding: “I could have done that, but I didn’t want to let him fight where he was strongest. I wanted to keep him guessing. That was the key to victory ” he continued
The 32-year-old expressed immense relief and gratitude for the victory which gained added significance after a roller coaster journey for him which reportedly included surgery to correct nerve damage as well as the possibility of retirement during his recovery.
“There were times when it was very disheartening. I felt like s—. There wasn’t any improvement or recovery. But I trusted my doctors and put the brakes on my training” a tearful Sterling shared.
“ I did the physical therapy. Thankfully, the nerves started to reconnect, and I finally started to have some gains.” He added speaking to the media. This time, I did it the way I always wanted,” Sterling said in a post-match comment. “I’ve felt like a champion for a long time, but this put a stamp on it ”he closed.
