The UFC lightweight division has long been one of the most exciting and competitive weight classes in mixed martial arts (MMA). With athletes weighing in at 155 pounds (70 kg), the lightweight fighters are known for their speed, agility, and explosive striking and grappling skills. Over the years, the division has seen an influx of talent, from seasoned veterans to rising stars, and the competition for the top spot has only intensified.
In this detailed article, we will explore the UFC lightweight rankings, diving into the top contenders, the champions who have defined the weight class, and the current state of the division. We’ll also examine the fighters who have recently made waves in the division and how they’ve shaped the lightweight landscape. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a deeper understanding of what makes the UFC lightweight division so special and who the key players are in today’s landscape.
The Evolution of the UFC Lightweight Division
A Brief History of the Lightweight Division
The UFC lightweight division was officially established in 1997, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that the division gained significant attention. Initially, lightweight fighters were often overshadowed by the larger, more dominant fighters in the welterweight and middleweight divisions. However, as the sport evolved and fighters like BJ Penn began to dominate the lightweight scene, the division’s profile began to rise.
BJ Penn, who became the first fighter in UFC history to win titles in two different weight classes, brought prominence to the lightweight division with his exceptional skills and versatile fighting style. His dominance in the 155-pound division set the stage for future champions and competitors to build upon.
The Modern Era of the Lightweight Division
Fast forward to the present day, and the lightweight division has become one of the most exciting in the UFC. Fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Conor McGregor, Tony Ferguson, and Charles Oliveira have turned the division into a battlefield where only the best of the best can survive.
As of 2025, the lightweight division is brimming with new talent and veterans alike, constantly changing as the rankings evolve and fighters rise and fall. It is a highly competitive weight class, with many title contenders gunning for the coveted championship belt.
The Current UFC Lightweight Champion
Islam Makhachev: The New Era of Lightweight Dominance
Islam Makhachev emerged as the UFC lightweight champion after defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in October 2022. Makhachev, a former teammate of the undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov, has quickly solidified himself as one of the most dominant forces in the UFC. Known for his exceptional wrestling, sambo skills, and increasingly dangerous striking, Makhachev has taken the division by storm, earning impressive victories over top contenders.
His victory over Oliveira, who had been on a 11-fight win streak, marked the beginning of a new chapter in the lightweight division. Makhachev’s control of the fight, both standing and on the ground, showcased his well-rounded game and tactical mastery, elevating him to the top of the division.
Makhachev is a unique talent who combines technical grappling with a striking game that has been evolving with each fight. His rise to the top, alongside the legacies of Khabib and Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, has injected fresh excitement into the lightweight division. As champion, Makhachev faces fierce competition from a list of hungry contenders looking to take his belt.
The UFC Lightweight Rankings: Top Fighters in the Division
The UFC lightweight rankings are a dynamic, ever-changing list that reflects the best fighters in the division based on their performance in recent fights, their ability to win dominant decisions, and their overall skill sets. Below is a breakdown of the top fighters in the UFC lightweight division as of 2025.
Islam Makhachev (Champion)
As mentioned, Islam Makhachev is the current champion, and he has firmly established himself as the best in the division. Known for his flawless grappling, control, and ability to dictate the pace of a fight, Makhachev represents the future of the UFC lightweight division. His recent victory over Charles Oliveira for the title and his subsequent defenses have solidified his place as one of the top fighters in MMA.
Makhachev has a strong sense of urgency and a hunger to defend his title against the best contenders. With a disciplined approach, he blends sambo, judo, and modern MMA techniques, making him a well-rounded fighter capable of excelling in multiple facets of the game.
Charles Oliveira (Former Champion)
Charles Oliveira was the lightweight champion before Makhachev claimed the title in 2022. Despite losing the title, Oliveira remains one of the most dangerous fighters in the division. His grappling is second to none, with a remarkable 16 submissions in the UFC, including his record-breaking win streak before losing to Makhachev.
Oliveira has become known for his wild, unpredictable fighting style, which often leads to thrilling exchanges in the Octagon. He is a fighter who is never out of the fight, capable of turning the tides with one perfectly timed submission or knockout. Oliveira’s striking has also improved over time, and his aggressive, forward-moving style makes him a tough matchup for anyone in the lightweight division.
Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier is one of the most skilled and experienced fighters in the UFC lightweight division. Having fought and defeated some of the best, including Conor McGregor and Eddie Alvarez, Poirier has shown that he can mix elite striking with a strong grappling game.
While Poirier has faced setbacks against top-level competition, he has consistently remained a fixture near the top of the rankings. His heart, determination, and well-rounded approach to MMA have earned him a reputation as one of the most dangerous contenders in the lightweight division.
Poirier’s biggest claim to fame in the UFC lightweight division is his two-fight series against Conor McGregor, which he won decisively. His performance in the division has helped elevate his status as a potential title challenger, and he remains one of the toughest tests for any fighter looking to take the belt.
Justin Gaethje
Known for his wild, all-action fighting style, Justin Gaethje has become one of the most exciting fighters to watch in the UFC lightweight division. Gaethje’s aggressive approach and iron chin have earned him thrilling knockout victories, and his wars in the Octagon have made him a fan favorite.
While his brawling style can sometimes leave him open to strikes, Gaethje’s toughness and unrelenting pace make him one of the most dangerous fighters in the lightweight division. His performance against Michael Chandler and Tony Ferguson showcased his ability to outlast and overwhelm opponents, while his fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov demonstrated his resilience against a dominant champion.
Gaethje remains a top contender in the division and is always a threat to any champion, as his power and aggression can end fights at any moment.
Michael Chandler
Michael Chandler entered the UFC with a bang, immediately becoming one of the top contenders in the lightweight division. With a background in wrestling and a penchant for finishing fights with explosive striking, Chandler quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous men in the weight class.
Although Chandler has faced mixed results in his UFC tenure, including a brutal loss to Charles Oliveira for the vacant title, his exciting style and ability to pull off dramatic finishes have kept him near the top of the rankings. His battles with top-level fighters like Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira have earned him respect as one of the top lightweights in the UFC.
Chandler’s experience, knockout power, and wrestling ability make him a dangerous matchup for anyone in the division, and his ability to finish fights means that he can never be counted out of the title picture.
Tony Ferguson
Tony Ferguson, a former interim lightweight champion, has become one of the most beloved and eccentric fighters in the UFC. Known for his unorthodox style, aggressive grappling, and unpredictability, Ferguson carved out his reputation by stringing together an impressive win streak that included victories over top contenders like Rafael dos Anjos and Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone.
While Ferguson’s career has seen some setbacks in recent years, including a loss to Charles Oliveira and a devastating knockout loss to Michael Chandler, his place in the lightweight rankings is still notable. Ferguson’s resilience, crazy antics, and ability to absorb punishment make him a unique challenge for any opponent in the division.
Beniel Dariush
Beneil Dariush has quietly worked his way into the top 10 of the UFC lightweight rankings with his well-rounded game and solid wins. A talented Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt with a growing striking game, Dariush has secured impressive victories over top contenders like Tony Ferguson and Carlos Diego Ferreira.
Dariush’s grappling is among the best in the lightweight division, but his striking, particularly his left hand, has become increasingly dangerous. With a mix of technique and grit, Dariush is one of the most well-rounded and dangerous fighters in the division.
FAQs
What are the UFC lightweight rankings?
The UFC lightweight rankings refer to the list of the top-ranked fighters in the UFC’s 155-pound division. These rankings are determined based on a fighter’s performance in the octagon, including wins, losses, strength of opponents, and other relevant factors like fight finishers and title defenses.
How are the UFC lightweight rankings determined?
The UFC lightweight rankings are decided by a panel of media members, analysts, and UFC officials. Rankings are updated periodically after significant events and fights, with a fighter’s position based on recent results, level of competition, and title implications.
Who is the current UFC lightweight champion?
As of January 2025, the current UFC lightweight champion is Islam Makhachev. He won the title in 2022 by defeating Charles Oliveira and has since successfully defended his belt.
How do fighters move up in the UFC lightweight rankings?
Fighters move up in the lightweight rankings by winning high-profile bouts, defeating top-ranked opponents, or securing impressive finishes. A fighter’s position is also influenced by the overall competitiveness of their division and their performance in key matchups, including title eliminators.
In summary
The UFC lightweight rankings represent the pinnacle of MMA competition at 155 pounds. With a deep pool of talented fighters, the division is constantly shifting, as rising stars and established champions face off in an attempt to claim the title. From the dominance of Islam Makhachev to the legendary performances of Charles Oliveira, the lightweight division offers some of the most exciting and competitive fights in the UFC.
As the fighters in the lightweight division continue to evolve, fans can look forward to many more thrilling nights of action. Whether it’s a high-stakes title fight or a fast-paced undercard bout, the UFC lightweight division remains one of the most captivating and dynamic weight classes in the world of mixed martial arts.
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