Featherweight fighters Brian Ortega and Aljamain Sterling will meet at UFC Shanghai in a highly anticipated co-main event scheduled for August 23, 2025. The match will take place at the Shanghai Indoor Stadium in Xuhui District, China, with the fighters competing at a catchweight of 153 pounds due to weight cut complications.
Career Highlights and Recent Performances of Brian Ortega
Brian Ortega has been a prominent figure in the 145-pound featherweight division for ten years, earning recognition as one of the division’s top competitors. Ortega has twice challenged for the UFC featherweight championship, facing tough defeats against Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski. His latest bout saw him losing to Diego Lopes, making this fight a critical opportunity for redemption.
Aljamain Sterling’s Transition and Recent Challenges
Aljamain Sterling, formerly the UFC bantamweight champion, has recently moved up to featherweight. After a successful featherweight debut, where he defeated Calvin Kattar, Sterling faced a setback at UFC 310 with a loss to Movsar Evloev. This upcoming fight will be crucial for Sterling as he seeks to reestablish himself in his new weight class.
Grappling Expertise to Take Center Stage
Both fighters are highly skilled in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, each holding a black belt. Their grappling abilities are expected to be a defining aspect of the fight, promising an intense and technical contest on the mat.
Event Details and Broadcast Information
UFC Shanghai will begin its preliminary fights at 3 AM ET / 12 AM PT, with the main card starting at 6 AM ET / 3 AM PT. The event will be broadcast live on ESPN+, and fans in India can watch the fights on Sony LIV. This matchup stands out as a key draw, adding excitement to the overall card at the Shanghai Indoor Stadium.
Anticipating the Impact of the Sterling vs. Ortega Bout
The upcoming encounter between Aljamain Sterling and Brian Ortega holds significant importance for both fighters’ careers, as each looks to make a strong statement in the featherweight division. The fight’s outcome could influence future title contention prospects and contribute to the ongoing narrative within UFC’s upper weight classes.