Who Will Dominate the MMA Scene in 2025? A Look at the Top Fighters
As we step into 2025, the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is buzzing with anticipation. The past year was a whirlwind of action, with fighters claiming titles, defending them, and some even reclaiming their lost glory. Among the standout performers of 2024 was UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, who had an exceptional year with three successful title defenses. His victories over former champions Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka were nothing short of spectacular.
However, as we look ahead, Pereira isn’t the fighter projected to have the best year in 2025. So, who is expected to shine the brightest? Our panel of MMA experts, including Brett Okamoto, Andreas Hale, Jeff Wagenheim, and Dre Waters, have weighed in to predict which fighters will thrive in the coming months. This isn’t just about ranking the best fighters; it’s about projecting who will succeed based on current performance, upcoming fights, and other factors outside the cage. Let’s dive into the top contenders for 2025.
1. Tom Aspinall
Previous rank: No. 8
UFC interim heavyweight champion
MMA record: 15-3
Tom Aspinall is on a meteoric rise. The interim heavyweight champion entered 2024 with an impressive record, having finished all his UFC opponents in under seven minutes. Last year, he added another knockout to his resume by avenging his only UFC loss against Curtis Blaydes in just 60 seconds. Aspinall’s blend of technique, speed, size, and power has fans excited about his potential. A showdown with Jon Jones is on the horizon, and if Aspinall can defeat Jones, he could become the first to truly conquer “Bones” in the octagon. Such a victory would solidify his place at the top. — Hale
2. Alex Pereira
Previous rank: No. 2
UFC light heavyweight champion
MMA record: 12-2
Alex Pereira remains a force to be reckoned with. Although he isn’t ranked No. 1 due to Aspinall’s potential clash with Jon Jones, Pereira’s status as one of the most entertaining and active fighters is undisputed. With talks of moving up to heavyweight, Pereira is poised to continue making waves in the MMA world. — Okamoto
3. Ilia Topuria
Previous rank: No. 10
UFC featherweight champion
MMA record: 16-0
Ilia Topuria had a phenomenal 2024, defeating two of the greatest featherweights in UFC history, Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, with knockout wins. In 2025, he could defend his 145-pound title or move to lightweight to pursue a two-division championship. Topuria’s heavy hands and Georgian roots make him a fighter to watch. — Hale
4. Khamzat Chimaev
Previous rank: No. 20
UFC middleweight
MMA record: 14-0
Khamzat Chimaev is finally living up to his potential. After a year of growth in 2024, Chimaev is poised for a breakout year. If he can stay healthy and active, he could become one of the biggest stars in MMA by 2026. — Okamoto
5. Islam Makhachev
Previous rank: No. 1
UFC lightweight champion
MMA record: 26-1
Islam Makhachev’s dominance continues, but inactivity has kept him from the top spot. After defeating Dustin Poirier in 2024, Makhachev is set for a strong 2025, starting with a rematch against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311. A win could lead to title defenses or a move to the welterweight division. — Hale
6. Zhang Weili
Previous rank: No. 5
UFC strawweight champion
MMA record: 25-3
Zhang Weili had a quiet 2024 with just one title defense. However, 2025 promises more excitement, starting with a title defense against Tatiana Suarez at UFC 312. If the stars align, Zhang might even attempt to become a two-weight champion at flyweight. — Okamoto
7. Kayla Harrison
Previous rank: No. 50
UFC women’s bantamweight
MMA record: 18-1
Kayla Harrison made a splash in the UFC in 2024, earning a title shot with wins over Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira. A championship bout against Julianna Peña is on the horizon, and a victory could set up a historic fight with Amanda Nunes. Harrison’s potential is immense, and 2025 could be her year. — Hale
8. Shavkat Rakhmonov
Previous rank: No. 11
UFC welterweight
MMA record: 19-0
Shavkat Rakhmonov is on the cusp of a title fight. With a proven track record of finishing fights and the support of Kazakhstan, Rakhmonov’s stock is set to rise in 2025. — Okamoto
9. Alexandre Pantoja
Previous rank: No. 6
UFC men’s flyweight champion
MMA record: 29-5
Alexandre Pantoja solidified his place among flyweight greats in 2024 with wins over Steve Erceg and Kai Asakura. In 2025, he aims to defend his title twice and further establish his dominance. — Hale
10. Umar Nurmagomedov
Previous rank: No. 31
UFC men’s bantamweight
MMA record: 18-0
Umar Nurmagomedov is finally getting the opportunities he deserves. Starting 2025 with a title fight against Merab Dvalishvili, Nurmagomedov has the potential to become the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world. — Okamoto
- Tom Aspinall: Poised for a historic clash with Jon Jones.
- Alex Pereira: Continues to entertain and dominate.
- Ilia Topuria: A rising star with knockout power.
- Khamzat Chimaev: Ready to fulfill his potential.
- Islam Makhachev: Aiming for another dominant year.
As we look forward to 2025, the MMA landscape is filled with potential and excitement. From rising stars to established champions, the year promises to be one of the most thrilling yet. Whether it’s Tom Aspinall’s quest to dethrone Jon Jones or Alex Pereira’s continued dominance, fans are in for a treat. Stay tuned as these fighters and many others battle it out for supremacy in the octagon.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
