Former UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan has provided his prediction for the expected next title fight in his division.
Ever since he recorded his second successful title defense last October at UFC 280, it’s been widely expected that Aljamain Sterling will welcome former two-division champion Henry Cejudo back to the Octagon next.
While there is still yet to be official confirmation of the bout, it appears to be all but finalized. And after reported showdowns in March and April didn’t come to fruition, both parties have named UFC 288 on May 6 as the likely date.
Ever since talk of the bout picked up, predictions and analysis have been consistently floated around the MMA community.
While some have cited Cejudo’s form prior to his 2020 retirement to support their view that “Triple C” is the man to dethrone “Funk Master,” others think the reigning champ will make it an unsuccessful comeback for the 2008 Olympic gold medalist.
Yan, a former two-time opponent of Sterling’s, sits in the latter group.
Yan Backs Former Opponent Sterling In Planned Next Defense
During his appearance at UFC Las Vegas media day on Wednesday ahead of his own return to the Octagon, Yan was asked for his take on the planned bantamweight showdown in New Jersey later this year.
Having shared the Octagon with Sterling on two separate occasions, feeling the full force of the champ’s grappling talents in their 2022 rematch, the Russian is well-placed to assess Sterling’s chances of victory.
And owing to Cejudo’s lengthy layoff, which will be three days short of three years should he return on May 6, “No Mercy” is giving Sterling good odds of a third successful retention.
“If this fight will (happen), I think Sterling will win,” Yan said before addressing whether Cejudo’s layoff will play a part in the result. “Yes, I think it’s gonna effect him. I don’t believe he’s gonna display his best shape.”
Before watching his division’s next championship bout, Yan has business to attend to this weekend. In the UFC Las Vegas main event, the Russian will look to return to the win column having gone 0-2 last year.
Given the controversial nature of his defeat to Sean O’Malley last October in Abu Dhabi, as well as the close nature of his rematch with “Funk Master” six months prior, it stands to reason that a victory over Merab Dvalishvili will thrust Yan straight back into contention.
Do you agree with Petr Yan’s prediction for Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo?
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