Aljamain Sterling's UFC record ranks among all-time greats after 23 fights

After 23 UFC fights, Aljamain Sterling holds an 18-5 record, which is better than legendary fighters like Robert Whittaker, Sean Strickland, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Anderson Silva, and Chuck Liddell at the same point in their careers. Only Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4) had better records after 23 UFC bouts. The analysis suggests Sterling's accomplishments, including championship reigns in two weight classes and victories over elite opponents like Petr Yan and Henry Cejudo, place him among the sport's greats. His recent victory over Zalal demonstrated his continued elite-level performance despite fighting past his peak. The piece argues Sterling could achieve legendary status with victories over top featherweights like Movsar Evloev, Diego Lopes, or Ilia Topuria.