Aljamain Sterling picks the tougher fight between Sean O'Malley and Henry Cejudo

After Aljamain Sterling's title defense at UFC 280, questions are beginning to form. Fans have asked who out of Sean O'Malley and Henry Cejudo is the tougher fight for the champion.

The Bantamweight king has a division full of killers all watching, awaiting their turn to earn a shot at 'Funk Master's' prestigious throne. Despite Dana White stating that 'Triple C' could be next in line, it seems the champion is planning a short break from the sport. He perhaps has the intention of returning to action midway through 2023.

Aljamain Sterling claimed that Sean O'Malley would be a tougher outing for him than the former two-division world champion Henry Cejudo. He stated this while replying to a question on social media.

Sterling continues to prove his worth inside the cage. In his two most recent outings, he has earned wins over the widely considered best bantamweight in the world. They are Petr Yan and arguably the 135lb G.O.A.T., T.J. Dillashaw.

Alongside Sean O'Malley and Henry Cejuda, the weight class has a number of other contenders who could cause problems for the champion.

Chito Vera has devastating power and impressive grappling. Cory Sandhagen is also capable of outstriking anybody in the division. Alongside these two, there are more competitors who are within touching distance of a title shot.

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Is Sean O'Malley a tougher fight for Aljamain Sterling than Henry Cejudo?

On face value, Aljamain Sterling's claim that Sean O'Malley is a harder fight for him than Henry Cejudo seems bizarre. Is the bantamweight champion correct in his statement?

'Sugar' brings finesse like no other into the octagon. He has the ability to mix up his shots and fight coming forward or on the back foot. He can switch stances but still remain just as effective is a rare skill he possesses.

'Aljo' has struggled with strikers in the past, having been knocked out by kick-heavy Marlon Moraes. However, his grappling strength is an aspect of the game where O'Malley isn't as experienced.

Alongside his ever-improving standup game, Henry Cejudo carries with him an Olympic gold medal in wrestling. He is arguably one of the greatest grapplers we've ever seen inside the UFC.

The Olympian's grappling is potentially greater than Sterling's inside the cage. Although he has been out of competition for years, his experience and knowledge of the fight game should help him find his feet inside the octagon.