As the UFC continues to evolve in 2025, the pound-for-pound rankings offer a snapshot of the sport’s most dominant and versatile fighters across all weight classes. These athletes combine skill, record, and recent performances to stake their claim as the best in mixed martial arts today. Here’s an expert look at the UFC’s top 10 pound-for-pound fighters in 2025, highlighting their achievements, styles, and what makes them stand out.
1. Islam Makhachev (Lightweight, 27–1)
Islam Makhachev remains the gold standard in the lightweight division and the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. The Dagestan native has successfully defended his lightweight title multiple times, showcasing a blend of elite wrestling, grappling, and improved striking. His recent submission victory over Renato Moicano at UFC 311 marked his fourth title defense, cementing his dominance. Makhachev’s ability to control opponents on the ground and finish fights efficiently makes him the benchmark for excellence in MMA.
2. Ilia Topuria (Lightweight, 16–0)
Ilia Topuria is one of the sport’s most exciting undefeated prospects. Known for his aggressive striking and relentless pace, Topuria has quickly risen through the lightweight ranks. His perfect 16–0 record speaks to his skill and composure inside the Octagon. Topuria’s combination of power and technique makes him a formidable challenger and a future title contender.
3. Merab Dvalishvili (Bantamweight Champion, 19–4)
Merab Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure and cardio have made him a nightmare for opponents in the bantamweight division. After successfully defending his title against Umar Nurmagomedov, Dvalishvili has solidified his status among the elite. His wrestling-heavy style combined with improving striking keeps him at the top of the pound-for-pound list.
4. Jon Jones (Heavyweight Champion, 28–1 [1 NC])
Jon Jones’s move to heavyweight has been one of the most talked-about storylines in MMA. The former light heavyweight legend claimed the UFC heavyweight title by defeating Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 and has since defended it successfully. Jones’s technical striking, wrestling pedigree, and fight IQ remain unmatched, even in a new weight class. His reign at heavyweight adds another chapter to his storied career.
5. Tom Aspinall (Interim Heavyweight Champion, 15–3)
Tom Aspinall has emerged as a top contender in the heavyweight division, capturing the interim title with a win over Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 295. The Englishman’s blend of striking and grappling, combined with a 3-fight win streak, has earned him a spot among the best pound-for-pound fighters. Aspinall’s youth and skill set suggest he could be a dominant force for years to come.
6. Alexander Volkanovski (Featherweight Champion, 27–4)
Alexander Volkanovski continues to be a dominant featherweight champion, known for his relentless pressure, strategic striking, and takedown defense. Despite recent challenges, his ability to adapt and win close fights keeps him firmly in the pound-for-pound conversation.
7. Dricus Du Plessis (Middleweight Champion)
A rising star at middleweight, Dricus Du Plessis has defended his title successfully, showcasing powerful striking and grappling. His recent lopsided decision win over Sean Strickland demonstrated his ability to control elite competition, earning him recognition as one of the top fighters globally.
8. Magomed Ankalaev (Light Heavyweight)
Magomed Ankalaev’s technical striking and grappling have propelled him up the light heavyweight rankings. With a record of 20–1–1, his consistent performances and ability to finish fights have made him a feared opponent and a staple in pound-for-pound lists.
9. Charles Oliveira (Lightweight, 35–10 [1 NC])
Charles Oliveira remains a dangerous lightweight with his submission prowess and evolving striking game. Despite some ups and downs, his record and ability to finish fights keep him among the elite fighters in the UFC.
10. Belal Muhammad (Welterweight)
Belal Muhammad’s steady rise in the welterweight division is marked by his well-rounded skill set and tactical fighting style. Known for his durability and fight IQ, Muhammad has become a consistent top contender, earning him a spot in the top 10 pound-for-pound rankings.
The UFC’s top 10 pound-for-pound fighters in 2025 represent a diverse group of champions and contenders who excel across multiple disciplines. From Islam Makhachev’s grappling dominance to Jon Jones’s heavyweight resurgence, these fighters embody the evolution of mixed martial arts. As the year progresses, fans can expect thrilling matchups and potential shifts in this elite list, but for now, these athletes stand as the best in the sport.
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