Class of opposition definitely makes a big difference. However the difference comes in the form of a technically average [Or above average] fighter performing sub elite strikes/movements and still being successful due to the level of the competition.
There are many fighters that look impressive against inferior opposition whilst still failing to appear as a true title threat. Someone like Rumble or Matt Brown comes to mind. They both have huge holes in their game which aren't getting exposed unless they face the very top tier competition. I.E: They can get away with it against a lesser fighter.
Conor [And Weidman before him] are examples of two fighters where yes - Their opposition hasn't been top tier prior to a title shot. That being said, they aren't beating their opposition with poor technique or getting away with basic errors - They are displaying near perfect technique and executing.
In that respect I look to the weapons both guys possess & while Aldo may have a better chance at defending against the rest of the division, Conor is just an awful match-up.
