MMA News Roundup: UFC rising star predicts Makhachev vs. Volkanovski, Conor McGregor exits rankings, Aljamain Sterling takes a shot at Raul Rosas Jr.
Welcome to today's edition of Sportskeeda's daily MMA News Roundup, where we present the biggest UFC updates and other stories from the world of mixed martial arts.
In today's issue, we talk about Conor McGregor's exit from the lightweight rankings, Aljamain Sterling providing his unfiltered thoughts on Raul Rosas Jr., and more.
#3. Conor McGregor exits UFC lightweight top 15
For the first time in six years, Conor McGregor is no longer included in the top 15 rankings of the UFC lightweight division.
The promotion has not updated its divisional hierarchies since December 6. However, TSN has uploaded a ranking that reflects the latest changes in advance, which the UFC also uses.
The Irish star has been bumped out in favor of rising contender Grant Dawson, who now occupies the No.14 spot on the 155-pound ladder.
#2. Aljamain Sterling claims Raul Rosas Jr. lacks "etiquette"
Raul Rosas Jr. gained a lot of supporters following his impressive performance at the UFC 282 pay-per-view event this past weekend. It's safe to say, however, that bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling isn't one of them.
A clip from Sterling's YouTube channel showed the champ recalling a practice grappling session with the teenage fighter. In the video, it was noticeable that 'Funk Master' was disappointed about the way things played out:
"I'm like, 'Oh, it's a f*cking show and tell... This is what you guys are doing? Are you guys just recording sh*t and saying nothing?'" Sterling said in the video. "That's just a sh*tty personality. You'd think someone would've taught him some etiquette, going into gyms and stuff and working out with other people. But I guess not."
Check out the clip below:
#1. Arman Tsarukyan predicts the Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski title bout
Rising star Arman Tsarukyan is of the opinion that Alexander Volkanovski will be the toughest test for Islam Makhachev thus far. However, he is confident that the Dagestani will ultimately prevail in the upcoming superfight.
In a recent interview with The Schmo, Tsarukyan was asked about his predictions for the highly anticipated matchup between the two champions at UFC 284. In response, the Armenian-Russian fighter stated:
"This is a good fight. I think this fight's going to show if Islam's the best or not in his game. Volkanovski is number one pound-for-pound and I think for Islam, he's going to be the toughest opponent, you know? My opinion is still that Islam's going to win, but for sure it's not going to be easy like [Charles] Oliveira."
Watch the full interview below: