Analysis argues Aljamain Sterling deserves recognition as outstanding fighter

After 23 UFC fights, Aljamain Sterling holds an 18-5 record, which ranks third-best historically behind only Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4) at that milestone. The analysis argues Sterling's win percentage surpasses legends like Robert Whittaker, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, and Anderson Silva at the same point in their UFC careers. The post highlights Sterling's victories over elite opponents including Petr Yan and Henry Cejudo, and notes his recent success moving up to featherweight despite being past his physical prime. The author suggests Sterling is one victory away from "great" status and two wins from becoming an "absolute legend," potentially fighting Diego Silva or Diego Lopes next for a title shot while Movsar Evloev faces Alexander Volkanovski.