Aljamain Sterling enters as one of the most accomplished fighters on the roster. The former bantamweight champion is chasing a second title in another division, and a win here would likely move him into serious title contention at 145 pounds.
Youssef Zalal, meanwhile, has rebuilt his UFC career in dramatic fashion. After an earlier release, he returned sharper, more dangerous, and now rides one of the hottest streaks in the division. Wins over names like Josh Emmett and Calvin Kattar have turned him into a legitimate contender.
Aljamain Sterling
Last 3 bouts:
Win. Brian Ortega – Decision
Lose. Movsar Evloev – Decision
Win. Sean O’Malley – Unanimous Decision
Fighting style:
Elite wrestler and grappler with constant movement, strong back control, and a pace-heavy approach. Sterling thrives by mixing takedowns, scrambles, and control time.
Strengths:
Former UFC champion with five-round experience
High-level wrestling and submission ability
Excellent cardio and nonstop movement
Strong fight IQ in tactical matchups
Proven against elite competition
Weaknesses:
Limited finishing power on the feet
Can struggle against strong anti-wrestlers
Now competing later in career at age 36
Sometimes starts slowly in striking exchanges
Keys to victory:
Mix takedowns early and force grappling exchanges
Pressure Zalal against the fence
Use veteran experience to manage championship rounds
Youssef Zalal
Last 3 bouts:
Win. Josh Emmett – Submission
Win. Calvin Kattar – Decision
Fighting style:
Fluid, creative striker with sharp kicks, slick movement, and underrated grappling. Zalal has evolved into a dangerous all-around featherweight with finishing instincts.
Strengths:
Eight-fight win streak entering the bout
Fast, technical striking with range control
Improved grappling and submission game
Younger, quicker athlete
Strong confidence and momentum
Weaknesses:
Less five-round main event experience
Can be pressured by relentless wrestlers
Biggest spotlight fight of career
Keys to victory:
Defend early takedowns and keep range
Use speed and volume in open space
Make Sterling work and test his gas tank late
Odds
Aljamain Sterling +114
Youssef Zalal -135
