Pace: 4.4 vs 3.2 landed / min
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The stored numbers are close enough that this is a fight about execution and adjustments rather than one obvious mismatch.
Sterling's wrestling (2.5 takedowns per 15) against Cejudo's striking is the central exchange: Cejudo stops 72% of attempts on record.
Supporting evidenceDistance: 7-inch reach difference
| Attribute | Sterling | Cejudo |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 33 | 36 |
| Height | 5′7″ | 5′4″ |
| Reach | 71″ | 64″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Rank | #4 Featherweight | Unranked |
Highlighted rows mark a meaningful factual difference, not an advantage. Unpublished values stay unpublished.
Sterling holds a 7-inch reach edge (71" to 64"); Cejudo has to cross distance to land.
Favors SterlingCejudo has 5 archived five-round fights to Sterling’s 3; championship rounds are familiar territory for one side.
Favors CejudoSterling averages 2.5 takedowns per 15 minutes; Cejudo has stopped 72% of attempts on record.
Favors CejudoWatch the first takedown attempt from Sterling: whether it lands, and how expensive it looks, tells you the shape of the fight.
Rounds two and three turn on whether Sterling keeps landing takedowns at 2.5 per 15 minutes; if Cejudo stays upright, the striking rates (4.3 vs 3.8 landed per minute) take over.
Scheduled for five rounds: 25 minutes changes the pace math, and a fighter who banks two early rounds can afford to manage the fourth.
