Aljamain Sterling recently unloaded on the UFC after their latest fight announcements sparked debate on social media. Sterling voiced his frustrations and believes it is time to finally speak up.
UFC CEO Dana White officially revealed the card for UFC 324, the promotion’s first on Paramount+. The event is headlined by an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett. That fight was criticized for being contested for an interim title fight despite the fighters’ respective rankings.
In addition, White announced that Alexander Volkanovski will defend his featherweight title against Diego Lopes at UFC 325. That fight is a rematch and has drawn criticism due to Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy being ahead in the rankings. Both competitors are also riding long winning streaks.
Sterling took to his social media and responded to a post from journalist Ariel Helwani. He reposted along with a message, taking aim at UFC management.
Sterling admitted that he has always defended the promotion from such criticism but can no longer do so in good faith. The former bantamweight champion feels that the best fighters should face each other, rather than giving opportunities based on popularity.
“It’s 110% not what it used to be. I ride for the company but this [expletive] is beyond frustrating!” Sterling wrote on X. “I get their POV, but stop saying we give the fans the fights they want to see and we make the best fight the best! It’s way more frequent now and extremely hard to ignore. Especially at your weight class.”
Aljamain Sterling Reacts to Diego Lopes Getting Another Title Shot
Aljamain Sterling also shared his thoughts on Diego Lopes getting another title shot against Alexander Volkanovski. Lopes faced Volkanovski for the vacant featherweight title at UFC 314, losing by unanimous decision.
Sterling stressed that he doesn’t blame Lopes or hold any animosity toward him for accepting a title shot. However, he mentioned that it is important for other worthy contenders to get an opportunity.
The former bantamweight champion urged fans to make their voices heard. Sterling feels that the UFC should honor the rankings when deciding who gets a title shot.
“All I ask is that the fans let their voices be heard. Again, I don’t blame Lopes for taking it, just like the first title fight, but it’s [expletive] and has no respect for the rankings or merit of earning your keep,” Sterling wrote on X. “They tried to deny Merab, and now they love him. Give guys a chance because you never know what they’ll be.”
Sterling Says Fans Can Influence UFC Matchmaking
Sterling also reminded fans that they can heavily influence UFC matchmaking by questioning decisions and make it be known when a fighter is snubbed. If there is significant fan demand for certain fights, the promotion will try booking the fights they want to see.
Sterling encouraged fans to take action. He believes that if the fanbase begins demanding merit be prioritized on the rankings, only then will changes happen.
“It’s up to the fans to start complaining about this nonsense. It’s obvious the fighters can’t do anything but fight who they offer us,” Sterling wrote on X. “The UFC caters to you fans. Do you guys want merit or popularity in these marque fights? Speak on it. All of you.”
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