UFC Rankings: Who’s Climbing After Fight Night Baku?

By Ali Hammad June 26, 2025 09:24

The latest UFC rankings update, released on June 24, 2025, following Fight Night Baku, has shaken up several divisions, highlighting emerging contenders and shifting the landscape across weight classes. With some fighters making significant leaps and others solidifying their positions, the post-Baku rankings provide a clear snapshot of who is on the rise as the UFC’s competitive season heats up.

Heavyweight Division: Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov Surge

In the heavyweight division, Ciryl Gane has climbed one spot to No. 1 contender behind champion Jon Jones, reflecting his recent victory over Alexander Volkov at UFC 310. Volkov, despite the loss, also moved up a spot to No. 3, illustrating the depth and competitiveness at the top of the division. Sergei Pavlovich, fresh off a win at Fight Night 250, leapt to No. 4, while Curtis Blaydes dropped to No. 5 after his loss to interim champ Tom Aspinall.

These movements underscore a heavyweight division in flux, with Jon Jones firmly holding the title but facing serious challenges from a pack of rising contenders. MMA analyst Mike Heck noted, “Gane’s technical striking and movement keep him at the forefront, but Pavlovich’s power and Blaydes’ wrestling make this division one of the most dynamic in UFC.”

Featherweight: Ilia Topuria’s Continued Ascendancy

Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski remains at the top, but the spotlight shines brightly on undefeated Ilia Topuria, who maintains his No. 1 contender status with a perfect 16-0 record. Topuria’s recent knockout of Calvin Kattar at UFC 317 demonstrated his striking prowess and composure under pressure. His rise has been meteoric, and many experts view him as the next dominant force in the featherweight division.

Topuria’s blend of power, precision, and grappling has earned praise from commentators. “He’s a complete fighter who’s still improving,” said former UFC champion Paul Felder. “If he continues this trajectory, a title shot is inevitable.”

Lightweight and Welterweight: Shifts and Breakthroughs

The lightweight division remains led by Islam Makhachev, but notable shifts are occurring beneath him. Mateusz Gamrot’s recent win over Arman Tsarukyan at UFC on ESPN: Gamrot vs. Klein vaulted him further into title contention, while Rafael Fiziev’s return to the rankings signals his readiness to challenge the division’s elite.

At welterweight, Michael Morales made a splash by cracking the top 10 after a TKO victory over Gilbert Burns at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Morales. Morales’ aggressive style and finishing ability have caught the attention of fans and pundits alike, making him a rising threat in a deep division.

Women’s Divisions: Rising Stars and Established Champions

In the women’s bantamweight division, Ketlen Vieira’s climb reflects her consistent performances, while Rose Namajunas remains a fixture in the top ranks of the strawweight class. Kayla Harrison’s championship win at UFC 316 further cements her status as a dominant force in women’s MMA.

What This Means Moving Forward

The UFC rankings after Fight Night Baku highlight a sport in constant evolution, with new contenders emerging and veterans reaffirming their status. These rankings not only influence matchmaking but also shape the narratives leading into major events like UFC 317 and beyond.

As UFC president Dana White often emphasizes, “Rankings are a snapshot, but the fights tell the real story.” With several fighters climbing the ladder, the upcoming months promise exciting matchups that could redefine divisions.

Fight Night Baku’s aftermath has set the stage for a dynamic summer in the UFC. Heavyweights like Ciryl Gane and Sergei Pavlovich are pushing for title shots, while featherweight sensation Ilia Topuria continues his assault on the division’s elite. Breakthrough performances in lightweight and welterweight divisions add further intrigue, as do developments in women’s MMA.