Aljamain Sterling, former UFC bantamweight champion, will replace Chad Mendes to face Benson Henderson at Real American Freestyle 6 on February 28. The event returns to Arizona and is set to feature a high-profile card, including Henry Cejudo versus Urijah Faber as the headline fight. Sterling, known as ‘Funkmaster,’ has not competed in the UFC since last August, when he earned a unanimous decision victory over Brian Ortega in a five-round co-main event.
Although Sterling has been campaigning for a featherweight title shot against Alexander Volkanovski, this upcoming match marks a departure from the UFC cage, as it will take place on the wrestling mats at RAF06.
Late Withdrawal by Chad Mendes Leads to Sterling’s Rapid Entry
The card had featured prominent former UFC athletes, including Chad Mendes and Benson Henderson. Mendes fought in the RAF last November but lost a decision to Michael Chandler. Just days before his scheduled fight with Henderson, Mendes pulled out due to an injury. In response, Sterling agreed to step in on just five days’ notice, setting up a matchup with the ex-UFC lightweight champion.
Bummed I can’t compete but I’m pumped to see this one,
Mendes commented on RAF’s announcement of the new fight.
Implications for Sterling’s UFC Future Following RAF Appearance
Sterling’s acceptance of this short-notice wrestling match signals a delay in his return to the UFC octagon. Currently ranked fifth in the featherweight division at 145 pounds, Sterling represents a fresh challenge to Volkanovski but will likely need another victory before securing a title shot. At 36 years old, Sterling remains engaged with the UFC scene and has offered to serve as a backup for the upcoming UFC London main event between Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy, indicating his continued readiness to compete at the highest level.
