Ranking The UFC's Middleweight Division
You're here to discuss the current state of one of the most exciting and competitive weight divisions in the sport of mixed martial arts, the UFC middleweight division.
This division is home to some of the most talented fighters on the planet who put on thrilling and high-level fights that leave fans (like us) on the edge of our seats. Whether you're a casual fan or a die-hard MMA enthusiast, we've got you covered with the latest updates on the top 15 ranked fighters.
Here are the dynamic and ever-changing UFC Middleweight Rankings.
Current Top 15 Middleweight Fighters
Current UFC Middleweight Champion - Dricus Du Plessis
Dricus Du Plessis is a South African professional mixed martial artist. At UFC 297, Du Plessis defeated former Middleweight champion, Sean Strickland.
Du Plessis' split decision victory over Sean Strickland earned him the Championship belt after just 7 professional fights in the UFC. Du Plessis faced off against Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 to defend his Championship title for the first time since becoming Middleweight champ.
Stop and watch the highlights from Du Plessis and Adesanya's 4-round back and forth before you scroll down.
#1 Middleweight Fighter - Sean Strickland
Sean Strickland, the enigmatic American mixed martial artist, has carved out a unique path in the Middleweight division. With his unorthodox style and relentless aggression, Strickland has consistently impressed fans and critics alike.
Strickland won his most recent bout against Paulo Costa by a controversial split decision at UFC 302. Strickland's professional record now sits at 29 wins and 6 losses.
#2 Middleweight Fighter - Israel Adesanya
Israel Adesanya is a Nigerian-born New Zealand professional mixed martial artist. Adesanya is considered to be one of the best strikers in MMA history, by many fight fans around the world.
Adesanya's nearly flawless striking style combines precision and agility, along with impeccable footwork. He is known for his incredible striking techniques and has achieved great success with multiple title defenses.
Adesanya's dynamic personality and charisma have helped him gain a sizable following in the sport. At UFC 305, he challenged Dricus Du Plessis for the belt, but came up short after being submitted in the fourth round.
#3 Middleweight Fighter - Robert Whittaker
Robert Whittaker is an Australian professional mixed martial artist. Whittaker competes in the Middleweight division, where he has established himself as a top contender.
Known for his well-rounded skill set, Whittaker possesses a combination of striking, grappling, and endurance that has earned him numerous victories and a UFC championship title.
#4 Middleweight Fighter - Nassourdine Imavov
Nassourdine Imavov fought Roman Dolidze in February 2024 and won by a majority decision. Imavov fought in the UFC for the first time back in 2020 and has consistently proven that he's here to stay.
"The Sniper" currently has a professional record of 13 wins and 4 losses.
#5 Middleweight Fighter - Jared Cannonier
Jared Cannonier is an American professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the UFC Middleweight division, where he has earned victories over several notable opponents.
Cannonier is known for competing in (and winning) fights in 3 different weight divisions including Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight, and Middleweight. In June 2024, Cannonier lost to Nassourdine Imavov by TKO in Round 4.
#6 Middleweight Fighter - Martin Vettori
Marvin Vettori, a charismatic Italian mixed martial artist, has made a name for himself in the UFC's Middleweight division. Known for his relentless pressure, tenacity, and strong grappling skills, Vettori has consistently delivered exciting fights.
With a fiery personality and an unwavering determination to become the champion, Vettori continues to capture the attention of fans around the world.
#7 Middleweight Fighter - Brendan Allen
Brendan Allen, the American-born mixed martial artist, has made a name for himself in the UFC middleweight division with his well-rounded skill set and impressive record of 24 wins and 5 losses.
Allen's gritty and relentless style has earned him a legion of fans who appreciate his determination to climb the ranks and become a future champion. In April 2024, Allen won his 24th victory after defeating Chris Curtis by Split Decision.
#8 Middleweight Fighter - Paulo Costa
Paulo Costa, the Brazilian powerhouse, has taken the UFC by storm with his explosive striking and chiseled physique. Nicknamed "The Borrachinha", Costa has bulldozed his way through many of the division's top fighters.
His trash-talking and brash persona, combined with his impressive skill set make him a polarizing figure in the sport. Costa lost his latest fight against Sean Strickland at UFC 302 in June 2024.
#9 Middleweight Fighter - Jack Hermansson
Jack Hermansson, the Swedish submission specialist, has made a notable impact in the UFC Middleweight division. With his exceptional grappling skills and relentless pace, Hermansson has remained competitive against other fellow top contenders.
Beyond his fighting abilities, he is also known for his calm and focused mindset, which have both contributed to his professional record of 24 wins and 8 losses.
#10 Middleweight Fighter - Roman Dolidze
After Roman Dolidze moved up a weight class at Light Heavyweight to fight Anthony Smith, the Georgian fighter proved he has depth. After defeating Smith, Dolidze moved into the Top 10 Middleweight rankings and increased his professional record to 13 wins and 3 losses.
Since his UFC debut in 2020, Dolidze has been awarded 3 Performance of the Night bonuses. Dolidze's next opponent has not been announced.
Come Back to Check for Updates
Since the UFC promotes fights on a regular basis, this list will change as rankings continue to shift and update, so come back after the next fight card to stay in the loop!
