Islam Makhachev has maintained his position as the top pound-for-pound fighter for well over 600 days. However, that lengthy reign is facing significant scrutiny following recent events, particularly UFC 317.
Ilia Topuria had openly stated his ambition to challenge Makhachev as a pivotal moment for his legacy. While a direct confrontation hasn`t occurred yet, Topuria recently made a major statement by capturing a vacant lightweight title with a stunning knockout victory over the highly-regarded Charles Oliveira. This performance is already considered a candidate for Knockout of the Year and makes Topuria one of only ten fighters in UFC history to hold championships in multiple divisions.
Undoubtedly, a win over Makhachev would leave no room for debate regarding the number one spot. But the undefeated Topuria has built a compelling case based on his own resume, which notably includes knockout wins against former champions Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. With Makhachev`s next potential bout speculated to be against Jack Della Maddalena, there is ample time for discussion and debate on the strength of Topuria`s claim to the top spot.
The shifting landscape is already evident in our panel`s voting. While Makhachev held all the first-place votes in June, the current rankings now show three fighters sharing the top position. Makhachev received three votes, Topuria secured two, and surprisingly, flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja earned one vote. Fighters like Merab Dvalishvili, Dricus du Plessis, Tom Aspinall, and Magomed Ankalaev are also climbing and pose potential threats. If Makhachev were to lose his next fight, it`s conceivable he could drop more than just one spot, which highlights the current competitiveness at the top.
Simply put, the conversation around the pound-for-pound rankings has become exciting again.
This renewed dynamic is partly influenced by a prominent fighter`s decision to step away from active competition. Jon Jones, frequently included in discussions about the greatest fighters of all time, has been removed from the current rankings following his announcement of retirement.
The former heavyweight champion had seen a steady decline in his ranking over several months as it became increasingly uncertain if he would compete again, particularly against Tom Aspinall. His official departure simplifies the ranking process by removing a fighter who seemed less focused on consistent competition.
Recent Results for Ranked Fighters
Ilia Topuria (previously #2) defeated Charles Oliveira (previously #17).
Alexandre Pantoja (previously #3, tied) faced Kai Kara-France.
Upcoming Bouts Featuring Ranked Fighters
- Dricus du Plessis (#5) vs. Khamzat Chimaev (#14) at UFC 319 (August 16)
- Max Holloway (#11) vs. Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 (July 19)
- Movsar Evloev (#17) vs. Aaron Pico at UFC Abu Dhabi (July 26)
Fighters Also Receiving Votes
Francis Ngannou (2 ballots), Aljamain Sterling (2), Joshua Van (1), Mario Bautista (1), Brandon Moreno (1), Cory Sandhagen (1)
Falling Out of the Rankings
Jon Jones (previously #15) due to retirement.
