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

An analysis of Aljamain Sterling's UFC career reveals that his 18-5 record after 23 fights ranks third-best in promotional history, behind only Jon Jones (22-1) and Donald Cerrone (19-4). Sterling's winning percentage surpasses legends like Robert Whittaker, Sean Strickland, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Anderson Silva, Demian Maia, Chuck Liddell, and Junior Dos Santos at the same career point. The post argues that Sterling deserves recognition as an outstanding fighter with an elite winning percentage maintained over 12 years, titles in two competitive divisions, and notable victories over elite opponents like Petr Yan and Henry Cejudo. The analysis suggests Sterling is potentially one victory away from "great" status and two wins from absolute legend status. The post includes a detailed re-examination of his controversial split decision victory over Yan, concluding the judges scored it correctly 3-2 for Sterling.