After defeating Brian Ortega in their five-round contest at UFC Fight Night on August 23 in China, the former bantamweight champion, Aljamain Sterling, called for a title shot against Alexander Volkanovski.
His post-fight interview at UFC Shanghai has sparked widespread discussion. Sterling argued that his impressive victory over Ortega firmly placed him in contention for a championship fight.
[Trending] Sterling Eyes Featherweight Title Shot Against Volkanovski
Aljamain Sterling has expressed his desire to face UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski next after his dominant win over Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai.
Sterling believes he has done enough in the sport, having defended his bantamweight title multiple times and now making his mark at featherweight.
He sees a fight against Volkanovski as a logical next step to compete for another belt. Sterling said, “Volkanovski is the man… I would love an opportunity to fight for the belt again.”
[Rejection] Dana White Dismisses Aljamain Sterling’s Title Shot Request
UFC CEO White has concerns about Sterling’s health and timing, as well as skepticism about Sterling’s comments and attitude.
Aljamain Sterling calling for a title shot pic.twitter.com/DPjLE5X1ri
— bruh💀 (@TheMMABruh) August 23, 2025
White mentioned that after Sterling’s recent title defense, there were questions about whether Sterling was fully healthy and ready to fight again so soon.
White also pointed out that when fighters indicate uncertainty about their readiness or condition, like Sterling saying, “if my body holds up,” it affects fight promotion and fan perceptions.
Moreover, White refuted any notion of disrespect but expressed frustration with Sterling’s public comments and reactions once the UFC announced his next title defense.
He explained that Sterling’s mixed signals and the quick turnaround between fights raise doubts about his immediate availability for another title shot.
[Viral] Public Reaction
Fans had mixed reactions to Aljamain Sterling asking for a title shot. Some were skeptical, while others found it funny. Many thought Dana White was being blunt in saying no.
X user @the3els wrote, “Aljo, I’m sorry, but Dana White would rather die than give you a title shot off of that.”
Aljo I’m sorry but Dana White would rather die than give you a title shot off of that
— Val Dewar (flyweight enjoyer) (@the3els) August 23, 2025
X User @TrentTH3Mexican wrote, “Not sure why the Shanghai crowd is booing Aljamain Sterling like he didn’t try to go for a finish, it’s not his fault. Brian Ortega was terrible at engaging for four rounds. Aljo hate is so forced it’s weird.”
Not sure why the Shanghai crowd is booing Aljamain Sterling like he didn’t try to go for a finish it’s not his fault Brian Ortega was terrible at engaging for four rounds. Aljo hate is so forced it’s weird.
— TrentTH3Mexican (@TrentTH3Mexican) August 23, 2025
When could Sterling get a title shot against Volkanovski?
Source reports, UFC matchmakers are currently focused on a potential Volkanovski vs. Lerone Murphy fight scheduled for December 2025, which indicates a delay in Sterling’s shot.
Pankaj Kapoor’s Take
From my perspective, Aljamain Sterling might benefit from taking some rest. Perhaps it might be his winning spirit that drives him to demand the next big fight so soon after UFC Shanghai. And for those who are trolling him for asking for a title shot, he has earned his victory and definitely deserves a chance to compete at the highest level.
