Upper Hutt’s rising MMA star Navajo Stirling will step back into the UFC octagon on May 11, taking on Croatia’s Ivan Erslan at UFC 315 in Montreal.
The 27-year-old light heavyweight remains unbeaten (6-0, 4 KOs) and is eager to prove himself against a tougher opponent. “I think he’s just real hardy, in your face, and really experienced,” Stirling said of Erslan (14-4, 10 KOs). “It’s a bit of a test for me… I just feel like I need the actual decent opponents now to etch my name up there.”
Both fighters are known for their striking ability, making this a matchup fans can expect fireworks from. Stirling earned his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series and dominated in his debut win over Tuco Tokkos. Erslan, however, faced stiffer competition in his UFC debut, narrowly losing a split decision to former ranked contender Ion Cutelaba.
While Stirling’s first UFC fight saw him cruise to a decision win, he is determined to showcase more of his abilities in this upcoming bout. He believes his last opponent was too focused on avoiding a knockout, limiting opportunities for an all-out brawl.
The fight will feature on a stacked UFC 315 card, headlined by Australia’s Jack Della Maddalena challenging Belal Muhammad for the welterweight title. Women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko will also defend her belt against Manon Fiorot in the co-main event.