Sterling On Why Yan Isn't Bantamweight GOAT Yet

Aljamain Sterling isn't convinced Petr Yan has earned bantamweight GOAT status despite his dominant trilogy win over Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 333.

Yan retained his 135-pound title with a masterful performance against Dvalishvili earlier this month, according to MMA Fighting. The victory sparked immediate debate about whether Yan now sits atop the division's all-time rankings.

Sterling, who previously held the bantamweight strap, believes Yan's résumé still has gaps. The former champion pointed to the criteria needed for GOAT consideration in the loaded bantamweight class.

Fighters like Dominick Cruz, Demetrious Johnson, and TJ Dillashaw have long been part of the 135-pound GOAT conversation. Yan's second win over Dvalishvili may have strengthened his case, but Sterling reportedly sees room for debate on where he ranks historically.

Yan has now closed out his trilogy with Dvalishvili and sits as the reigning champion at bantamweight.