Aljamain Sterling makes his return to the octagon at UFC Atlantic City

Here’s hoping Atlantic City is ready, because “The Funk Master” is coming to town. Aljamain Sterling will look to get back on track as he faces Brett Johns at UFC Fight New 128 in Atlantic City on April 21st. Newsday was the first to report the bout.

For Sterling (14-3), it’s a chance to redeem himself after his last loss. Last December at UFC Fight Night 123 in Fresno, the 28-year old fighter from Uniondale was brutally knocked out by a Marlon Moraes knee to the head. It became a cringe-worthy moment in the UFC. The round one loss was the first KO loss of Sterling’s career. The number nine ranked UFC bantamweight is 2-3 in his last five fights since starting his career at 12-0. With his health seemingly back to normal, Sterling is out for some revenge.

Below Sterling in the rankings is Johns (15-0), who is 3-0 in the UFC. The former Titan FC Bantamweight Champion is making a case from being ranked 14th to the top ten. He is coming off of an impressive victory against Joe Soto at the TUF 26 finale. He used a calf slicer (the second win via that move in UFC history) to quickly end the fight. After an outing like that, it’s only fitting that a collision course with a top contender like Sterling would be next for Johns.

This fight may spice things up within the bantamweight division. With Georges St-Pierre out and Robert Whittaker’s health in jeopardy, the field is wide open. Will Aljamain Sterling rebound and win in front of family and friends? Does Brett Johns have other plans for him, resulting in a clear path to superstardom? Atlantic City seems to be the place to answer all of these questions.

UFC Fight Night 128 takes place inside Boardwalk Hall. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 2nd.