Aljamain Sterling's 18-5 UFC record ranks among promotion's all-time best

After 23 fights in the UFC, Aljamain Sterling holds an 18-5 record, which ranks among the best win percentages in promotional history at that milestone. Only Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4) had better records after 23 UFC fights. Sterling matches Dustin Poirier and Matt Hughes at 18-5, and has a better percentage than legends including Robert Whittaker, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Anderson Silva, Demian Maia, and Junior dos Santos. The post argues Sterling deserves recognition as an outstanding fighter, highlighting his elite win percentage over 12 years, titles in two competitive weight classes, and recent victories over top competition. His latest win over Zalal, despite showing signs of wear, demonstrated his championship-level skills through technical grappling exchanges. The analysis suggests Sterling is one victory away from great status and two from legend status if he can defeat either Diego Lopes or Movsar Evloev for another title shot.