Ortega: I’m the Only One Talented Enough to Finish Sterling – I’ll Be the One to Fire the First Shot to Eliminate Him

When chimpanzees clash in the wild, adrenaline spikes — the same can be said for Brian Ortega stepping into the cage against Aljamain Sterling on August 23, 2025, at UFC Fight Night in Shanghai. Ranked #4 in the Featherweight division, Ortega is looking to snap a mixed run of performances and reclaim momentum. Sterling, the former Bantamweight champion, has moved up and is set on making a splash in this new weight class. This co-main event isn’t just another fight—it’s a crossroads for both warriors.

Background and Career Momentum

Brian Ortega, nicknamed “T‑City,” hails from San Pedro, California, but fights with a fierce pride that extends far beyond his hometown. A 1st-degree Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu black belt under Rener Gracie, Ortega turned pro in 2010 and boasts a record of 16–4 with 8 submission wins—solid proof of his grappling pedigree.

Among his legendary victories:

• A knockout over Frankie Edgar at UFC 222;

• A brutal guillotine submission of Cub Swanson at UFC 214;

• And a memorable arm-triangle finish of Yair Rodríguez in 2024.

However, his run has been spotty lately. Following a painful shoulder injury and TKO loss in 2022, and a decision loss in his lightweight debut versus Diego Lopes in September 2024, Ortega is eager to re-establish himself amid a packed Featherweight lineup.

On the flip side, Aljamain Sterling (24–5) is no stranger to headlines. A former UFC Bantamweight champion, he’s moved up to Featherweight, earning wins over Calvin Kattar but dropping a decision to Movsar Evloev in December. Now, he’s gunning for the top once again.

The Stakes: Redemption vs Proving Ground

• Ortega needs this win to stay relevant in the top five. A victory over a former champ like Sterling would propel him toward another title run.

• Sterling is making a statement in a new weight class. A win here strengthens his case as a multi-division threat.

Style Contrast: Submission Savvy vs Wrestling Control

Brian Ortega has built his reputation on elite submission skills and opportunistic striking. His 50% submission rate indicates a fighter who can finish from anywhere in the fight. He’s known for his quick, fight-ending grapples and quick counters.

Sterling fights with a modern wrestling-heavy approach. His takedowns and controlling clinch work disrupt opponents and pave the way for decisions. Ortega must avoid being taken down and must exploit openings with sharp submissions.

Keys to Victory

For Ortega:

1. Strike smart early to keep Sterling cautious.

2. Counter the takedown attempts with strong sprawl and footwork.

3. Attack in scrambles—this is where Ortega thrives.

For Sterling:

1. Establish dominant wrestling early to sap Ortega’s gas tank.

2. Use control to score rounds—don’t give Ortega openings.

3. Stay sharp in grappling exchanges; Ortega can snatch a sub fast.

Mental Edge

Brian Ortega thrives in anticipating opponent mistakes. He’s known for stepping into risky situations with confidence:

| Brian Ortega: I’m not just here to survive—I’m here to finish what needs finishing.

Meanwhile, Sterling’s calm and calculated approach is unshakeable:

| Aljamain Sterling: New weight, new challenges—I’ve come too far to slow down.

Fan & Expert Buzz

Social media and press coverage highlight this as one of the most compelling co-main matchups in years. Fans respect Ortega’s grit and star power; analysts praise Sterling’s seamless transition in weight class. Betting odds remain close, reflecting both fighters’ strengths.

Former champ and commentator Brett Okamoto noted:

“Sterling will be pushing hard to prove he belongs at 145. Ortega has legit firepower and sub skills.”

Experts predict a tight matchup—no dominator, but a war of control vs flash.

What a Win Means For Ortega

1. Title contention—a win puts him right beside top tilt opportunities.

2. Legacy boost—another highlight-reel finish adds to his highlight tape.

3. Fan base growth—a victory in Shanghai amplifies his global appeal.

What a Loss Means For Ortega

A loss wouldn’t kill him, but…

• Risks slipping outside top 10.

• Casts doubt on his return from injury.

• Still opens doors for high-level matchups later, but not title ones.

Fight Scenario Breakdown

Round 1: Ortega throws counters; Sterling hunts takedowns. Cage control will define who has early control.

Round 2–3: If Ortega evades early, he eats into Sterling’s gas tank. Submission attempts spike.

Round 4–5: Ortega needs to press advantage. Sterling may shift to wrestling-heavy grind.

Prediction: Ortega via rear-naked choke in Round 3—a comeback story with submission flair.

Cultural & Global Context

This is UFC’s first Shanghai event since 2017—bigger than the fighters. A packed Mercedes‑Benz Arena with Chinese fans backing Zhang & Walker is notable. But Ortega vs Sterling co‑mainvent adds bold flavor. A win for Ortega means he defines the evening and makes a statement across Asia and Latino communities worldwide.

The Final Take

A win for Brian Ortega brings him back into Featherweight elite status and cements his comeback after injury; for Aljamain Sterling, it would bolster his claim as a two-division contender. This fight isn’t just about the win—it’s about where each fighter goes next.

Ortega enters Shanghai not just to prove winners rebounce, but to cut a decisive chapter in his legacy. Sterling brings technical precision and championship experience into a high-stakes puzzle. All signs point to a ground-shaking night in China.