Following Petr Yan’s recent victory over Marcus McGhee, Aljamain Sterling shared insights on why Yan remains such a formidable opponent in the UFC bantamweight division. Yan’s current streak of three consecutive wins positions him as a potential contender for another title shot soon, reflecting the highly competitive nature of this weight class.
Sterling, who has faced Yan twice and emerged victorious both times—once by disqualification and once via split decision—offered a detailed explanation of what makes Yan stand out as a fighter at 135 pounds.
The Relentless Pressure and Defense That Define Yan
Sterling emphasized Yan’s fearlessness in exchanging punches and his remarkable confidence in his ability to absorb damage while maintaining his strategy. He said,
“He’s willing to trade in the pocket, and he’s willing to put his chin on the line.”
This willingness to engage aggressively while trusting his defense allows Yan to outlast opponents in intense exchanges.
According to Sterling, the key to overcoming Yan lies in one’s ability to control his movement during the fight. If a fighter cannot effectively neutralize Yan’s pressure and keep him still for an extended period, they are likely to struggle.
Yan’s Unstoppable Come-Forward Approach Makes Him a ‘Boogeyman’
Sterling compared Yan’s relentless style to an unstoppable force, likening him to the fictional horror icon Jason Voorhees. He explained,
“I hate to say it because it sounds boring, but what the f*ck would you do with this Terminator machine, Jason Voorhees, just walking you down, and every time you punch him, he just comes back forward? And you just start to get like, ‘Well what else am I supposed to hit him with? Kitchen sink?’”
This metaphor highlights Yan’s ability to keep advancing despite being hit, creating a mental and physical challenge for his opponents. Sterling warned that unless fighters can effectively stop Yan’s forward movement, they risk being overwhelmed by what he called the “boogeyman walking you down.”
What This Means for the Bantamweight Division
Petr Yan’s combination of toughness, defensive skill, and aggressive pressure makes him a constant threat in the UFC bantamweight ranks. Aljamain Sterling’s comments underscore the difficulty fighters face when preparing for Yan and hint at the intense battles likely to continue in this division. As Yan maintains his winning streak, fans and fighters alike will be watching to see if he earns another shot at the championship.