Sterling's win record after 23 UFC fights third-best in promotion history

Aljamain Sterling now has an 18-5 record after 23 UFC fights, which is the third-best win percentage in UFC history at that milestone, behind only Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4). The post argues that Sterling deserves recognition as an outstanding fighter, with a better 23-fight record than legends like Whittaker, Strickland, Aldo, Holloway, Anderson Silva, and others. The author suggests Sterling's victories over elite opponents like Petr Yan and Henry Cejudo are historically significant, and that he is one victory away from great status and two from absolute legend status. Sterling's recent victory over Zalal demonstrated his championship-level skills despite fighting past his peak. The post makes a case for re-evaluating Sterling's legacy in comparison to past MMA legends.