Sterling ranks third-best winning percentage after 23 UFC fights in history

Aljamain Sterling has achieved an 18-5 record after 23 UFC fights, ranking him third all-time for winning percentage at that career milestone. Only Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4) had better records through 23 UFC bouts. Sterling's winning percentage surpasses legends including Dustin Poirier, Robert Whittaker, Sean Strickland, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Anderson Silva, Anderson Silva, Demian Maia, Chuck Liddell, and Junior dos Santos at the same career point. The analysis argues Sterling should be recognized as an elite fighter given his championship reign at bantamweight and continued success at featherweight. His recent victory over Zalal, despite not being at his sharpest, demonstrated his high-level skills including sweep techniques and back control. The post suggests Sterling is one victory away from great status and two wins from legendary status if he can defeat top featherweights like Movsar Evloev, Diego Lopes, or Lerone Murphy.