LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 24: (L-R) Opponents Aljamain Sterling and Youssef Zalal of Morocco face off during the UFC weigh-in at Meta APEX on April 24, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC) This is the live blog for Aljamain Sterling vs. Youssef Zalal, the featherweight main event for Saturday’s UFC Vegas 116 card at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas.A former bantamweight champion, Sterling made the move up to 145 pounds in 2024 and has had success in the weight class, with his only loss being a close decision against Movsar Evloev. Sterling rebounded from that defeat last summer, beating former two-time title challenger Brian Ortega at UFC Shanghai.
Now, Sterling hopes to make his case for a featherweight title shot by turning back the surging Zalal.Zalal famously struggled during his first UFC stint, winning his first three bouts before going winless over his next four, resulting in his exit from the promotion. After a few wins on the regional scene, Zalal found his way back to the octagon, where he’s been perfect, winning five in a row, four by way of submission. Now, Zalal hopes to announce himself as a legitimate title threat at 145 pounds.Check out the Aljamain Sterling vs.
Youssef Zalal live blog below.PreambleOf all the events in UFC history, this has certainly been one of them. 12 fights, 10 decisions; we’re one away from tying the record. Will Aljo and Zalal help make history? Let’s find out.Walkouts and Pre-FightRound 1Round 2Round 3Round 4Round 5Official DecisionPost-Fight