Aljamain Sterling made it clear in his pre-fight interviews before facing Sean O’Malley at UFC 292 that it would be the former champion’s last fight at bantamweight. The New Yorker, who has a walk-around weight of around 170 pounds, felt the massive weight cut to make 135 was taking a toll on his body, especially as he got older.

He had plans to move up and had even floated a possible matchup against pound-for-pound king Alexander Volkanovski at featherweight. But, his loss last Saturday seems to have dispelled these plans for the time being. ‘Funkmaster’ has already called for a rematch with ‘Suga’, and will be fighting at least one more fight at 135. Furthermore, Volkanovski has given his reaction to Sterling’s loss, and it’s not good news for the New Yorker.

Alexander Volkanovski talks about potential Sterling matchup post-UFC 292

Alexander Volkanovski reacted to Sterling vs. O’Malley and was impressed with Suga’s “incredible” counter. He also shot down any chances of a possible fight between him and the Jamaican-American at 145.

“Gotta feel for ‘Aljo’, man. I mean, what does he want to do? He’s definitely going to want that rematch. That’s a big, big fight. [Him vs. me] That’s not happening. You never know, if he would have had a big win he could have took Ilia [Topuria’s] spot but [he didn’t],” he said.

Aljamain Sterling reacted to the Australian’s statement and expressed his disbelief. But, the longest reigning bantamweight champion promised to come back and use it as motivation.

“This all still feels like a bad, bad dream. Unfortunately, it’s not. This sport is really something…. I’m just gonna let it fuel me. I’ll be back 💪🏾” he tweeted.

Sterling’s future uncertain after Sean O’Malley loss

Sean O’Malley caught Sterling flush with a counter right in the second round, sending him to the floor. The Montana native followed up with hammer fists until the bout was waived off by the referee. This came as a surprise to many, as most people felt that Sterling’s excellent ground game would be too good for ‘Suga’ Sean.

Read More – Dustin Poirier Gives His Official Prediction for Sean O’Malley vs. Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292

Sterling has been clear about wanting a rematch with O’Malley. But, what he will do after that is unclear. It would make sense for him to move up if he wins. But things could get even more complicated for him if he loses the rematch. Who do you think will win in a rematch between O’Malley and Sterling? Let us know in the comments section below.

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