Aljamain Sterling reveals retirement was a possibility with a bad loss to Youssef Zalal at UFC Vegas 116

“Is it a passing of the torch type of fight?” Sterling said. “I was just happy I was able to pass the test with flying colors. I’m not sticking around — I’ve got enough money, could always use a little bit more though — but it’s just one of those things. This sport hurts. Ain’t nobody looking to stick around and let these young bucks just beat you up.”

Call it mission accomplished because Sterling maintained control and nearly scored the finish against Zalal on several occasions before winning a lopsided decision.

Heading into the fight, Sterling was already ranked higher than his opponent but Zalal was trying to take out a veteran and inject himself into the title fight conversation. Instead, Sterling maintained his position as a top ranked featherweight with hopes that he’ll get a shot at UFC gold sooner than later.

“I’m not a stepping stone for anybody,” Sterling said. “If you’re going to fight me, if you’re going to sign that contract, you’re in for a long 15 or 25 minutes with me and that’s just facts.”

While the win likely keeps Sterling near title contention, all signs are currently pointing towards Movsar Evloev getting the next shot against reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski.

Evloev is undefeated with a remarkable 10 fight win streak in the UFC, which includes his unanimous decision victory over Sterling back in 2024.

As much as he believes he should have gotten the nod that night, Sterling gives Evloev credit for picking up the win but if the UFC comes calling and offered him the title shot instead, he’s certainly not going to defer to his former opponent.

“I do think Movsar deserves it but if they offered me the opportunity, I’m not going to say no,” Sterling said. “I’m not going to say this guy deserves it. If they offer it to me, hell yeah, I’m f*cking taking it.

“I’m going to give it everything I’ve got until the wheels fall off. I think it’s a fight that everybody would love to see. Two OG’s of the sport. Why not? It just makes a whole lot of sense.”