Sterling has a personal score to settle with Evloev: in December 2024 at UFC 310, Movsar confidently won by unanimous decision, dealing Aljamain a defeat in the featherweight division. Since then, the American has been looking for ways to get back to the top of the 145-pound division, and the London backup opportunity seems ideal for him.
In an interview with Home of Fight, Sterling was quite candid about his former opponent's reputation:
"I'm going to be the backup for the tournament in London. Movsar is one of the most unreliable fighters. How many times has he already withdrawn? It's usually him. If I get a chance to face either of these guys and win, then I think everything will become clear. I will get another chance to compete for the title."