Aljamain Sterling found himself at a crucial juncture. Heading into UFC 300, he faced Calvin Kattar in a fight that could redefine his career.
It was a big moment. Sterling was making his featherweight debut against Kattar, a notable figure in the New England Cartel. He clinched a unanimous decision victory, showcasing a masterclass in grappling. Yet, some argued he should’ve pushed harder for a knockout. Sterling, the ex-bantamweight champ, had high stakes riding on this. He hinted at retirement if he lost this bout.
“I was close to calling it quits,” Sterling revealed on “The MMA Hour.” He hadn’t shared these thoughts with anyone, not even his fiancé. It was a private battle. “If I can’t beat Kattar, what’s next for me?” he pondered. This fight wasn’t just about winning; it was about proving his worth to himself.
Cutting weight has always been a struggle for Sterling, who walks around at 165-168 pounds. The drop to featherweight, though slightly better, was tougher than anticipated. There were moments he wanted to throw in the towel. But the vision of doubling his paycheck and inching closer to title glory kept him going.
Sterling openly discussed the mental battles fighters face. “It’s all about perspective,” he said. Despite financial security, the drive to compete keeps him in the game. He admitted to questioning his motivation but concluded that his love for the sport and the pursuit of greatness fuel his determination.
In essence, Sterling’s journey to UFC 300 was more than just a fight; it was a testament to his resilience, ambition, and love for mixed martial arts.