FUNK MASTER
The problem for the ‘Suga Show’ is that reigning champion Sterling can fight too. And I mean, really fight. Stylistically, his power grappling game presents a clear route to victory over an unorthodox striker like O’Malley.
The 34-year-old New Yorker has a 23-3 record and is riding a nine-fight win streak, including three former champions in his last three defences.
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It’s taken Sterling some time to get the respect his talent deserves, but now high in the pound-for-pound rankings he’s breaking records with every defence of his bantamweight title.
His eight career submissions wins against three knockouts highlights that strength on the ground for the Matt Serra trained BJJ black belt. But it’s also the athleticism he possesses which allows him to ground his opponents down with that relentless grappling.
O’Malley, 28, is no slouch on the mats himself, but his strength absolutely arrives on the feet where his height and reach advantage allow him to dictate range behind a solid jab before launching probing and spinning power kicks and combinations.
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O’Malley silenced his doubters in October by defeating Petr Yan, one of the former champions on Sterling’s recent resume, which secured him this shot at destiny.
But, in his first ever UFC main event, he’s going to have to be punch-perfect to secure the stoppage victory is likely going to take to end Sterling’s reign.
The champion is a significant favourite for a reason.
He’s worked hard to get where he is, and he’s made significant improvements along the way to legitimise his plans to move up a weight class in 2024 and shoot for his own slice of greatness.
But MMA has a habit of turning best laid plans sour and with Aljo looking past O’Malley for his next great challenge, he’ll miss the shot to end his reign.
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Suga Show.
