Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Ortega–Sterling Moved to 153-Pound Catchweight After Weigh-In Scare at UFC Shanghai

The last-minute switch followed reports of Ortega’s weight-cut complications, prompting fresh concern over fighter safety.

8/23/2025
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • UFC officials confirmed both Brian Ortega and Aljamain Sterling weighed in at 153 pounds, preserving the co-main event as a catchweight.
  • Multiple outlets reported Ortega experienced weight-cut issues before the scale, with initial cancellation chatter later reversed after the official announcement.
  • Betting markets swung toward Sterling following the episode, with his line shortening from about -275 to roughly -380 at some sportsbooks.
  • The main event remains Johnny Walker vs. Zhang Mingyang, with the Chinese contender entering unbeaten in the UFC and riding a rapid knockout streak.
  • Earlier in fight week, Sterling criticized being booked for a five-round, non-headlining bout without additional compensation, spotlighting ongoing pay tensions.