Sterling Accepts Vallejos' Pure Striking Challenge

Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has accepted Kevin Vallejos' challenge for a pure striking battle at UFC Qatar later this year.

Vallejos, who faces Sterling on the undercard of Jiri Prochazka vs. Navajo Stirling, floated the idea on social media shortly after the bout was announced. "I think my fight with Sterling will be pure striking," Vallejos wrote, per BJPenn.com. "ALL the fans win with this one. Legend vs. Prospect. All-out striking war in a full arena."

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Sterling responded quickly to the proposition with a two-word reply: "Can't wait!" The exchange sets up a potential showcase between the former 135-pound titleholder and one of featherweight's hottest prospects. Vallejos carries momentum from recent victories over Josh Emmett, Giga Chikadze, and Seung-Woo Choi, while Sterling has rebounded from a narrow decision loss to Movsar Evloev with consecutive wins over Youssef Zalal and Brian Ortega.

The New York native moved to 145 pounds full-time following his bantamweight title loss to Sean O'Malley at UFC 292. Sterling's reputation as a submission specialist means abandoning his ground game could play into Vallejos' hands, though the former champion has shown improved boxing in recent outings.

UFC Qatar takes place later in 2026 with the Sterling-Vallejos featherweight clash positioned as a co-main event attraction beneath the light heavyweight bout. No specific date has been announced for the card's return to the Middle East.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Aljamain Sterling accepts ‘pure striking’ offer from Kevin Vallejos ahead of UFC Qatar clash