Sterling reveals he nearly lost consciousness in Zalal guillotine choke

Aljamain Sterling disclosed that he came close to being finished by a guillotine choke from Youssef Zalal during their recent fight. Sterling admitted that he thought he was about to lose consciousness during the submission attempt but refused to tap out. The former bantamweight champion explained that he couldn't allow Zalal the satisfaction of making him submit. Sterling's determination not to tap meant he was willing to go unconscious rather than concede defeat. The revelation highlights the intensity of their grappling exchange and Sterling's mental toughness. Despite the dangerous moment, Sterling survived the submission attempt and continued fighting.