Matchmaking Jean Silva After Big Win at UFC Noche

Jean Silva has now gone back-to-back after suffering his first UFC loss at last year's UFC Noche event. Originally scheduled to face Yair Rodriguez, Silva stepped up and faced a late-notice opponent, Jose Delgado.

After a strange first round in which it took Silva being dropped to actually engage, throw a punch and seemingly wake up, he rallied in the second and third rounds and proved his superiority. Locking in a rear-naked choke in the third round, Silva earned himself a performance of the night bonus.

After defeating an unranked opponent, it's unlikely that his stock will rise, and he'll likely remain #6 in the rankings. We take a look at who could be next for Jean Silva.

Matchmaking Jean Silva

Aljamain Sterling

The most logical next fight for Jean Silva is Aljamain Sterling. The former bantamweight champion is ranked above Silva at #4 and is enjoying a two-fight winning run after defeating Brian Ortega and Youssef Zalal. Either man could realistically compete for the belt after the conclusion of UFC 333; however, both men are more than likely going to need another win to cement their names in the championship picture.

It's a clash of styles, with the American preferring the wrestling realm and Silva preferring to stay on the feet. It's the best fight to make in the division outside of the title fight. Book it.

Lerone Murphy

Lerone Murphy is coming off a loss to the next title challenger, Movsar Evloev. With that being said, he's still ranked #3 and is a tough test for everyone in the division. With a record of 17-1 and as a stand-up specialist, he would provide Silva with plenty of puzzles that he hasn't yet come across in the octagon.

The Brit is looking to get back in the title picture, and a win over Silva would provide just that. For Silva, Murphy is a well-respected name in the division and would provide a big step up in competition from Delgado.

Losene Keita

Granted, this is a huge outside shout, but after his last win, Losene Keita is a scary prospect at featherweight. He called out Lerone Murphy, but a fight with Jean Silva could make a lot of sense. He's a super talent, but for Silva there's very little to gain and everything to lose.

Would anyone not sign up for that fight?