Analysis: Sterling's 18-5 record after 23 UFC fights ranks among all-time best

An analytical post argues that Aljamain Sterling deserves recognition as an outstanding fighter based on his statistics and achievements. After 23 UFC fights, Sterling's 18-5 record is bettered only by Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4), matching Dustin Poirier and Matt Hughes. The post contends Sterling's winning percentage surpasses legends like Robert Whittaker, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Anderson Silva, and others at the same career point. The analysis highlights Sterling's victories over elite opponents like Petr Yan and Henry Cejudo, with a detailed breakdown of the second Yan fight scored 3-2 for Sterling. The post suggests Sterling is one victory away from great status and two from legendary status if he can defeat top featherweights like Movsar Evloev, Diego Lopes, or Ilia Topuria.