25 Facts About Aljamain Sterling

Aljamain Sterling: The Early Years

Aljamain Sterling, a name synonymous with mixed martial arts (MMA), has a fascinating journey. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early life and career beginnings.

1. Born on July 31, 1989, in Uniondale, New York, Sterling grew up in a large family with 19 siblings.
2. His parents are Jamaican immigrants, which influenced his strong work ethic and determination.
3. Sterling attended Uniondale High School, where he first got involved in wrestling.
4. He initially pursued a degree in physical education at Morrisville State College before transferring to SUNY Cortland.
5. At SUNY Cortland, he became a two-time NCAA Division III All-American wrestler.

The Start of an MMA Career

Sterling's transition from wrestling to MMA was a pivotal moment. Here are some key facts about his early MMA career.

6. He began training in MMA in 2009, inspired by his college wrestling teammate and future UFC fighter, Jon Jones.
7. Sterling made his amateur MMA debut in 2010, quickly amassing a 6-1 record.
8. He turned professional in 2011, winning his debut fight against Sergio da Silva.
9. Sterling earned the nickname "Funk Master" due to his unorthodox and unpredictable fighting style.
10. Before joining the UFC, he fought in Cage Fury Fighting Championships (CFFC), where he became the bantamweight champion.

UFC Journey and Achievements

Sterling's UFC career is marked by significant achievements and memorable fights. Let's explore some highlights.

11. He made his UFC debut on February 22, 2014, against Cody Gibson, winning by unanimous decision.
12. Sterling's first UFC finish came against Hugo Viana on July 16, 2014, via third-round TKO.
13. He earned his first Performance of the Night bonus for his submission victory over Takeya Mizugaki on April 18, 2015.
14. Sterling faced his first professional loss against Bryan Caraway on May 29, 2016, in a closely contested split decision.
15. On March 6, 2021, Sterling won the UFC Bantamweight Championship by disqualification against Petr Yan, becoming the first fighter in UFC history to win a title this way.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the octagon, Sterling has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some facts about his life outside fighting.

16. Sterling is married to Rebecca Cruz, his longtime girlfriend, and they have a son together.
17. He is an avid gamer and often streams his gameplay on Twitch.
18. Sterling has a passion for cooking and frequently shares his culinary creations on social media.
19. He is a vocal advocate for fighter pay and better working conditions in the UFC.
20. Sterling enjoys traveling and often documents his adventures on his YouTube channel.

Training and Fighting Style

Sterling's unique fighting style and rigorous training regimen set him apart. Let's delve into some aspects of his training and technique.

21. He trains at Serra-Longo Fight Team in Long Island, New York, under the guidance of coaches Ray Longo and Matt Serra.
22. Sterling's fighting style is a blend of wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and striking, making him a versatile and unpredictable opponent.
23. He holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, awarded by Matt Serra.
24. Sterling is known for his exceptional cardio and endurance, often outlasting opponents in grueling fights.
25. He incorporates yoga and meditation into his training routine to enhance mental focus and flexibility.

Sterling's Impact on MMA

Aljamain Sterling's journey in MMA is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days wrestling in high school to becoming the UFC Bantamweight Champion, he's shown grit, determination, and skill. Sterling's unique fighting style, marked by his grappling prowess and striking versatility, sets him apart in the octagon. His dedication to the sport and his ability to overcome challenges make him a standout athlete. Beyond his physical abilities, Sterling's charisma and connection with fans have made him a beloved figure in the MMA community. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the sport, Sterling's story is a testament to what hard work and passion can achieve. Keep an eye on this fighter; his career is far from over, and he's sure to continue making waves in the MMA world.