Navajo Stirling shocked UFC 315; here’s why everyone’s talking about the unbeaten star

At UFC 315 in Montreal, New Zealand's Navajo Stirling extended his undefeated streak to 7-0 with a unanimous decision victory over Croatia's Ivan Erslan. The judges scored the bout 29-28, 29-28, and 29-27 in Stirling's favor.

With the third round nearly ending in a stoppage after Stirling landed a decisive straight right that floored Erslan. After landing the decisive blow, he admitted to believing he had done enough to end it: "I thought he was already gone. Do I sprawl or keep hitting him?"

Stirling, a 27-year-old light heavyweight, fights out of Auckland's renowned City Kickboxing gym, home to UFC stars like Israel Adesanya. He is 6'4" tall with a 79-inch reach and has a solid kickboxing background for the octagon. His professional record boasts 4 knockouts and 3 decision victories.


Born Rongotehengia Navajo Hunter Stirling on November 7, 1997, he hails from Upper Hutt, Wellington. He began training in martial arts at 19, seeking direction in life. He started his journey from local fight circuits, which landed him in the UFC spotlight.

Stirling's ascent in the UFC's light heavyweight division marks him as one of Oceania's most promising talents. As he continues to climb the ranks, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how far this Kiwi fighter can go.

In his post-fight interview, Stirling reflected on the bout, saying, "I talked it up aye so I gotta show up, I turned it back on after things not going my way."

FAQs

What is Navajo Stirling's real name?

Navajo Stirling's real name is Rongotehengia Navajo Hunter Stirling. He was born in New Zealand on November 7, 1997, and is of Maori descent. He uses Navajo as a middle name, inspired by his father's love of western movies.

Is Navajo Sterling in the UFC?

Yes, Navajo Stirling is currently a UFC fighter competing in the light heavyweight division. He recently won a unanimous decision at UFC 315, improving his MMA record to 7-0 and continuing his rise in the UFC ranks. Stirling is a promising New Zealand athlete known for his striking and grappling skills.

What is the Navajo record in UFC?

Navajo Stirling's UFC record is undefeated at 7-0 as of May 2025. He recently won by unanimous decision at UFC 315, maintaining his perfect professional MMA record with two UFC victories and five wins in other promotions. He competes in the light heavyweight division.