Aljamain Sterling, representing the Serra-Longo Fight Team, is set to face Youssef Zalal in the main event of UFC Fight Night 274 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Sterling enters the Octagon as a slight underdog, but he possesses several advantages that could lead him to victory. With 22 fights in the UFC, Sterling brings nearly double the experience of Zalal, who has only 12 fights. Sterling has gone beyond three rounds multiple times, while Zalal has never experienced a fight that lasted longer than that. Additionally, Sterling's wrestling prowess, honed during his time as a two-time NCAA All-American, has allowed him to execute 50 takedowns in his career, a skill that could be pivotal against Zalal. Furthermore, Sterling has a successful record against top-level competition, holding a 5-1 record against current or former champions, including two victories over Petr Yan. In contrast, Zalal has yet to capture a championship, underscoring the difference in their competitive pedigree.