Aljamain Sterling explains his "speculation" about Movsar Evloev using steroids ahead of UFC 310 clash: "I have friends from that region"
Aljamain Sterling recently voiced suspicions that Movsar Evloev may be using performance-enhancing drugs.
In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Sterling hinted that Evloev might not be competing "clean," stirring up a debate that first emerged on social media. While Evloev has never tested positive for banned substances, Sterling remains skeptical.
Speaking to Helwani, he said:
“I mean, we all know that. We've all heard the same accusations about you know, respectfully, like I said, I have friends from that region, It's different... I thought guys have been on gear. It is what it is… you know, you don't know until you they actually pop for something… And because you pay for all these doctors and things to make sure you can pass these exams or tests or whatever… I don't have the luxury or the financial backing like now I do, but back then to pay for stuff like that."
He further noted:
"My body looks exactly the same as it did when I was 21 years old. Like, nothing's changed…. So I have speculation that, yeah, maybe he's on some sh*t. Maybe he has. Maybe he's not anymore. I don't know. But either way, I'm going to show up and I'm going to fight. I'm going to see. But I still think I'm a better fighter than he is. So regardless.”
Check out Aljamain Sterling's comments below:
Sterling originally planned to face Evloev at UFC 307 on Oct. 5, but an injury during sparring forced him to withdraw. The fight has since been rescheduled for Dec. 7, at UFC 310.
Aljamain Sterling wants a title shot against Ilia Topuria if he wins at UFC 310
Aljamain Sterling aims to earn a title shot in the featherweight division by defeating Movsar Evloev at UFC 310 next month. After successfully transitioning to featherweight earlier this year with a unanimous decision victory over Calvin Kattar at UFC 300, Sterling has his sights set on challenging Ilia Topuria for the title.
Speaking in the aforementioned interview with Ariel Helwani, Sterling acknowledged the high stakes:
"He's going to have to hold this L, man. That O has got to go... I think a win over Movsar gets me in the title shot conversation... I think it's new blood. It's exciting. There's a storyline of, obviously, Merab is the champ so it's like, 'Who is Merab going to back?' People are already asking these questions. I'm like, 'Guys, please stop with the drama.'"
He added:
"I don't even want to think about that right now. I have to win this fight to even get into that conversation so I got a tough task in front of me in less than four weeks and I'm just excited to shut this guy up once and for all."
Check out Aljamain Sterling's comments below:
Check out the full interview below: