Navajo Stirling has all the tools, and he’d be the first to tell you as much. The New Zealander has a sturdy, 6-foot-4 frame, and, coming out of Auckland’s City Kickboxing, has all the knowledge and training partners available a young fighter could want. Through two UFC appearances, the 27-year-old hasn’t provided any reason to doubt his potential, picking up decision wins over Tuco Tokkos and Ivan Erslan.
Stirling’s performances in those fights are best described as “solid,” showing off heavy striking and solid defensive grappling. The best trait he showed in 30 minutes of Octagon time has been his composure.