Aljamain Sterling delivered a commanding performance at UFC Vegas 116, defeating Youssef Zalal in the main event. Sterling established control early, securing takedowns and maintaining positional advantage throughout the fight. He utilized his striking effectively to close distance and initiated takedowns in the first and second rounds. In the second round, Sterling capitalized on taking Zalal’s back, landing ground strikes and employing a body triangle that limited Zalal’s escape options.
The third round saw a shift as Sterling was caught in a guillotine choke early on. Though he managed to escape, Zalal gained top control and secured the round. However, Sterling quickly regained momentum in the fourth round, initiating another takedown and landing significant ground and pound, including an attempt at a rear-naked choke, leading to what was arguably a 10-8 round.
In the final round, despite Zalal’s aggressive approach, Sterling again secured a takedown and took his opponent’s back. He continued to inflict damage with strikes, accumulating points and ultimately securing a unanimous decision victory. The official scorecards read 49-45, 49-45, and 49-45 in favor of Aljamain Sterling.
