Aljamain Sterling showcased an exceptional grappling performance, overwhelming Youssef Zalal in the main event of UFC Vegas 116 on Saturday night. Sterling’s control on the ground was evident throughout the fight, leading to a clear unanimous decision victory.
In the first round, Sterling effectively utilized his striking to close the distance and secure a crucial takedown. Once on the mat, he maintained dominant control, earning him the first round on the judges’ scorecards.
The second round saw Sterling again take Zalal to the canvas. Demonstrating his nickname ‘Funk Master’, Sterling immediately secured his opponent’s back and unleashed a series of ground strikes. Despite Zalal’s attempts to escape, Sterling’s body triangle submission threat and relentless offense secured him a dominant second round, putting him up 2-0 after ten minutes.
The third round presented a challenge for Sterling as he shot for an early takedown and found himself caught in a tight guillotine choke. While he managed to escape the submission attempt, he ceded top control to Zalal. ‘The Moroccan Devil’ capitalized on this position, maintaining control and winning the round, marking his first on the scorecards.
Perhaps motivated by surrendering the third round, Sterling initiated the fourth with renewed aggression. He quickly secured another takedown and, similar to the second round, launched a barrage of strikes before working towards a rear-naked choke. Zalal struggled to counter Sterling’s offense, resulting in what was likely a 10-8 round for Sterling.
Needing a finish in the final round, Zalal pressed forward aggressively. However, Sterling’s defensive grappling and offensive pressure remained too much. He successfully secured another takedown and took Zalal’s back once more. From this dominant position, Sterling continued to land effective strikes, accumulating points and sealing a decisive victory via unanimous decision.
Official Result: Aljamain Sterling def. Youssef Zalal via unanimous decision (49-45, 49-45, 49-45).
Sterling’s masterful display of grappling control and offensive striking proved to be the difference maker in his compelling performance at UFC Vegas 116.
