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Aljamain Sterling Retains UFC Bantamweight Title with Split Decision Win over Henry Cejudo

In a highly anticipated bout at UFC 288, Aljamain Sterling has successfully defended his UFC bantamweight championship with a split decision victory over former two-division champion Henry Cejudo.

Sterling, known as "The Funk Master," dominated the fight early on with his grappling skills and controlled most of the first two rounds. Cejudo, making his octagon return after a three-year hiatus, struggled to find his rhythm and failed to mount a significant offense in the first half of the fight.

In the third round, Cejudo came alive and landed a series of hard strikes that staggered Sterling. However, Sterling recovered and returned the favor with a takedown of his own. The fourth and fifth rounds were a back-and-forth affair, with both fighters exchanging blows and grappling on the ground.

Ultimately, the judges awarded the fight to Sterling with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 47-48. The victory extends Sterling's reign as bantamweight champion and marks his fourth consecutive defense of the title.

In his post-fight interview, Sterling called out Sean O'Malley as his next potential opponent. "I want to fight the best, and I think Sean O'Malley is the best in the division right now," said Sterling. "Let's do it.".

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