Sterling vs. Zalal Headlines UFC Vegas 116: A Featherweight Clash
Las Vegas, NV – Former UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling will face surging featherweight contender Youssef Zalal in the main event of UFC Fight Night on April 25, 2026, at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. This bout was elevated to the main event slot after the original headliner, a welterweight contest between Sean Brady and Joaquin Buckley, was moved to UFC 328 in Newark, Latest Jersey [MMA Mania].
Sterling’s Transition to Featherweight
Aljamain Sterling (25-5 MMA, 17-5 UFC) is embarking on a new chapter in his career after a dominant reign in the bantamweight division. He is looking to capture a title in a second weight class [MMA Mania]. Sterling recently secured a unanimous decision victory over Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai in August 2025 [MMA Mania].
Zalal’s Rise in the Featherweight Division
Youssef Zalal (18-5-1 MMA, 8-3-1 UFC) has been steadily climbing the ranks in the featherweight division. He presents a significant challenge to Sterling with his dynamic striking and grappling skills. As of March 24, 2026, Zalal is ranked #13 in the UFC featherweight division, while Sterling holds the #6 spot [Tapology].
Fighter Comparison
| Statistic | Aljamain Sterling | Youssef Zalal |
|---|---|---|
| UFC Rank | #6 Featherweight | #13 Featherweight |
| Record | 25-5-0 | 18-5-1 |
| Age at Fight | 36 years, 8 months, 3 weeks, 4 days | 29 years, 7 months, 3 weeks |
| Height | 5’7″ (171cm) | 5’10” (178cm) |
| Reach | 71.0″ (180cm) | 72.0″ (183cm) |
| Weight | 153.0 lbs (69.4 kgs) | 153.0 lbs (69.4 kgs) |
Data sourced from Tapology.
Sterling’s Perspective on the Matchup
Sterling acknowledges Zalal as a difficult opponent, praising his movement and ability to avoid damage. He describes Zalal as one of the harder fighters to beat in the featherweight division, highlighting his jab and calf kicks [MMA Junkie]. Sterling views this fight as a strategic puzzle, anticipating a high-level chess match between two skilled fighters [MMA Junkie].
Event Details
- Event: UFC Fight Night: Sterling vs. Zalal
- Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
- Time: 4:00 PM ET
- Venue: Meta APEX, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Weight Class: Featherweight (145 lbs)
Information sourced from Tapology and MMA Mania.
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