The UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings have undergone a significant shift, with Dricus Du Plessis storming into the top five after his stunning victory over Israel Adesanya at UFC 305. This meteoric rise reflects Du Plessis’ relentless drive and unorthodox approach inside the octagon, earning him a well-deserved spot among the sport’s elite.
Updated UFC Men’s Pound-for-Pound Rankings:
- Islam Makhachev
The reigning lightweight champion continues to dominate, holding firm at the top of the list with his grappling supremacy and striking improvements. - Alex Pereira
The former middleweight king has found a new home at light heavyweight, maintaining his position as one of the most feared strikers in the sport. - Jon Jones
Despite limited recent activity, the former light heavyweight champion’s legacy and skillset keep him in the top three, with fans eagerly awaiting his next move. - Ilia Topuria
The Georgian phenom has quickly climbed the ranks with his undefeated record in the UFC, showcasing elite striking and grappling in the featherweight division. - Dricus Du Plessis
New to the top five, Du Plessis has proven his mettle with five straight victories, including his latest triumph over Adesanya. His awkward yet effective style continues to confound opponents. - Sean O’Malley
The flashy bantamweight champion has seen his rank increase following his title win, displaying both knockout power and technical precision. - Belal Muhammad
A tactical mastermind in the welterweight division, Muhammad’s rank has slightly decreased despite his consistent performances. - Tom Aspinall
The British heavyweight has made waves with his quick finishes and well-rounded skillset, climbing two spots in the rankings. - Leon Edwards
The welterweight champion and “Rocky” of the division, Edwards has slipped a spot, but remains a top contender with his slick striking and defense. - Alexander Volkanovski
The featherweight king has dropped slightly, but his place among the elite is unquestionable, with a blend of power, speed, and fight IQ. - Max Holloway
The former featherweight champion continues to hang around the top, thanks to his relentless pace and striking volume. - Alexandre Pantoja
The flyweight champion makes his mark with a balanced mix of submission prowess and striking efficiency. - Sean Strickland
Known for his pressure and durability, Strickland’s consistent performances keep him relevant in the middleweight division. - Charles Oliveira
The former lightweight champion remains a submission threat and an exciting fighter, keeping him in the top 15. - Israel Adesanya
After his loss to Du Plessis, Adesanya finds himself at the bottom of the list, but still within the top 15 due to his impressive career and potential for a comeback.
The Bottom Line
Dricus Du Plessis’ rapid ascent in the UFC rankings marks a pivotal moment in the middleweight division and the broader pound-for-pound landscape. With five consecutive victories, including stoppages of former champions Darren Till, Derek Brunson, and Robert Whittaker, Du Plessis has proven himself as a formidable force in the octagon. Holding an impressive record of 22 wins and 2 losses, with 6 stoppages in just 8 UFC appearances, his continued evolution could redefine the hierarchy in the sport’s most competitive divisions. As Du Plessis rises, the future battles he faces will be crucial in determining his legacy in the UFC.
