In an exciting year for mixed martial arts, athletes around the globe have etched their names into the annals of UFC history through remarkable performances and unforgettable matches. Among them, Dricus du Plessis has emerged as a new force in the UFC middleweight division, while other seasoned fighters continue to maintain their dominance across various weight classes.
Dricus du Plessis: The New Middleweight Champion
At 30 years old, South African native Dricus du Plessis has firmly established himself as the UFC middleweight champion. His ascent to the top was marked by a series of impressive victories, the most notable being his split decision win over Sean Strickland at UFC 297 in January. This victory laid the groundwork for du Plessis's championship reign.
Not stopping there, du Plessis continued to showcase his prowess with significant stoppage victories over notable fighters such as Darren Till, Derek Brunson, and Robert Whittaker. His crowning achievement came at UFC 305 in August, where he submitted the formidable Israel Adesanya in the fourth round with a face crank, solidifying his status as a champion. With five consecutive wins in the UFC and six stoppage victories in his eight fights, du Plessis is currently ranked fifth in the men's pound-for-pound rankings, testament to his exceptional skill and determination.
Islam Makhachev and Jon Jones: Dominating Lightweight and Heavyweight Divisions
Islam Makhachev continues to reign supreme in the lightweight division, boasting an impressive record of 26-1. His victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 further cemented his position as one of the top fighters in his weight class. Meanwhile, Jon Jones, with an equally remarkable record of 27-1 and 1 no contest, was preparing to defend his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic last November. Unfortunately, a pectoral tear in training delayed the bout, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the rescheduled match-up.
Alex Pereira: A Rising Star in the Light Heavyweight Division
Alex Pereira has made a name for himself in the light heavyweight division with an 11-2 record. He headlined UFC 300 in April, finishing Jamahal Hill and followed it up by knocking out Jiri Prochazka at UFC 303 in July. Pereira's performances have elevated him as a formidable contender, and his career trajectory suggests even greater achievements ahead.
Ilia Topuria: The Undefeated Featherweight Champion
In the featherweight division, Ilia Topuria remains undefeated with a pristine 15-0 record. His dominant finish of Alexander Volkanovski within the first two rounds at UFC 298 in February exemplified his prowess. Topuria's next challenge comes in October at UFC 308, where he is scheduled to defend his title against Max Holloway, a fighter with a 26-7 record and currently enjoying a three-fight win streak. At 32 years old, Holloway's experience and recent form make this an anticipated showdown.
Belal Muhammad and Sean O'Malley: Streaks and Titles
Belal Muhammad continues to impress in the welterweight division, extending his unbeaten streak to 11 fights, carrying a record of 24-4 with 1 no contest. In the bantamweight division, Sean O'Malley holds the title with a 17-1 record and 1 no contest. His recent victory over Marlon Vera at UFC 299 added another notable win to his growing list of achievements.
Flyweight and Strawweight Divisions: Champions and Contenders
In the flyweight division, Alexandre Pantoja reigns supreme with a 28-5 record, while Alexa Grasso, holding a 16-3-1 record, shares the spotlight following her title rematch with Valentina Shevchenko, which ended in a split draw. Shevchenko herself remains a formidable force with a record of 23-4-1.
In the strawweight division, Zhang Weili continues her dominance with a 25-3 record. Additionally, Tatiana Suarez, unbeaten with a 10-0 record, recently showcased her grappling skills by submitting Jessica Andrade in August. Manon Fiorot, carrying a 12-1 record, also made headlines by defeating Erin Blanchfield by shutout decision.
The UFC landscape is teeming with talent and excitement, as established champions and rising stars alike continue to captivate fans around the globe. With each event, these fighters push the boundaries of the sport, promising even more thrilling bouts and unforgettable moments in the octagon.