The UFC Bantamweight division, home to fighters who weigh no more than 135 pounds (61 kg), is widely regarded as one of the most exciting and competitive weight classes in mixed martial arts (MMA). Known for producing fast-paced, skill-heavy bouts, the bantamweight division has gained increasing attention over the years, thanks to its combination of powerful strikers, elusive grapplers, and well-rounded athletes.
With constantly shifting rankings and a group of talented fighters battling for the top spot, the UFC Bantamweight rankings represent a dynamic landscape that is always evolving. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the current UFC Bantamweight rankings, the fighters who have made their mark in the division, and the matchups that are shaping the future of this exciting weight class.
The Rise of the Bantamweight Division
The UFC Bantamweight division has always been home to some of the fastest and most technically proficient fighters in MMA. While the division initially struggled to gain mainstream attention, it has since become one of the most exciting and competitive categories in the promotion. As the sport of MMA has evolved, so too has the Bantamweight division, with many of the best fighters in the world coming from this weight class.
The success of fighters like Dominick Cruz, TJ Dillashaw, and Henry Cejudo helped to solidify the division’s relevance on the global stage. These athletes not only showcased their skills but also brought a level of athleticism and strategy to the division that has paved the way for the next generation of bantamweight talent.
In recent years, the division has seen an influx of fresh, hungry contenders looking to dethrone established champions and carve their own legacies. With the fast pace of the division and the wide range of skill sets among its fighters, the bantamweight division has become one of the most fan-favorite weight classes in the UFC.
The Current UFC Bantamweight Champion: Aljamain Sterling
As of 2025, the reigning UFC Bantamweight Champion is Aljamain Sterling, who has held the title since March 2021. Sterling’s rise to the top of the bantamweight division is one of the more interesting stories in recent UFC history. A skilled grappler and submission specialist, Sterling’s technical expertise has made him a dominant force in the division.
Aljamain Sterling’s Path to the Title
Sterling first began making waves in the UFC in 2014, quickly establishing himself as a promising prospect with his wrestling and submission game. However, his rise to the top was not without its challenges. Sterling’s first opportunity at the title came in 2020 when he faced Petr Yan for the vacant Bantamweight Championship. That fight ended in controversy after Yan delivered an illegal knee to the head of a downed Sterling, resulting in a disqualification victory for Sterling, making him the new champion.
While some criticized the way Sterling won the title, the New York native silenced doubters in his first title defense against Petr Yan in a rematch at UFC 273 in April 2022. Sterling won the fight via split decision, securing his legitimacy as the champion and further cementing his place in bantamweight history.
Sterling’s style is based on controlling the fight with his grappling and imposing a relentless pace, which has made him a difficult opponent to deal with. His long reach and ability to mix in strikes with his takedown attempts make him a dangerous challenge for anyone in the division.
Top Fighters in the UFC Bantamweight Rankings
Below the champion, the bantamweight division is filled with a mix of established contenders and rising stars. Let’s break down the current top-ranked bantamweight fighters according to the latest UFC rankings and explore their unique attributes and what makes them dangerous in the octagon.
Merab Dvalishvili
Merab Dvalishvili, the Georgian-born fighter, has earned his position as the top contender in the bantamweight division due to his relentless pace and exceptional cardio. Known for his wrestling-heavy style, Dvalishvili has accumulated a series of dominant victories that have placed him in the conversation for a title shot.
Dvalishvili is one of the most relentless fighters in the UFC, constantly pushing the pace and never giving his opponents a moment to breathe. He has won multiple fights in a row, including victories over top-ranked fighters such as Jose Aldo and Petr Yan. His cardio allows him to maintain a high level of intensity throughout a fight, and his ability to chain together takedowns and control his opponents in clinch situations makes him a formidable force.
Despite his dominance, Dvalishvili has faced some criticism regarding his striking, but his grappling and wrestling remain the key factors that make him a dangerous opponent in the bantamweight division. Many are eagerly awaiting his potential title fight with Sterling, as their contrasting styles could lead to an epic showdown.
Petr Yan
Petr Yan is widely regarded as one of the most technically proficient strikers in the bantamweight division. Hailing from Russia, Yan has a reputation for his ability to dictate the pace of a fight and his crisp, precise striking. After becoming the UFC Bantamweight Champion in 2019, Yan’s reign was marred by a disqualification loss to Aljamain Sterling, but he bounced back with a series of strong performances.
Yan’s stand-up game is among the best in the division, combining powerful punches with a tactical approach to striking that allows him to break down opponents over the course of a fight. His movement, footwork, and defense make him a hard fighter to hit, and his ability to make adjustments during a bout is one of his greatest assets.
While Yan has had some setbacks, including his controversial loss to Sterling, he remains one of the most dangerous fighters in the division. His resilience and striking make him a constant threat, and fans are eagerly anticipating his future bouts, which could very well put him back in the title picture.
Cory Sandhagen
Cory Sandhagen is another top-ranked bantamweight who has made a name for himself with his dynamic striking and ability to finish fights. Known for his creativity and unorthodox approach, Sandhagen has had standout performances against fighters like Frankie Edgar and Marlon Moraes.
Sandhagen’s standout skill is his striking, with his fluid movement, footwork, and ability to switch stances making him a tricky opponent to figure out. His elbows, flying knees, and overall unorthodox attack make him dangerous in every exchange, and his finishing ability is second to none in the division.
Although he came up short in his attempts to win the title, including a decision loss to Aljamain Sterling and a TKO loss to T.J. Dillashaw, Sandhagen remains a top contender in the division. His high skill ceiling and creative approach make him one of the most exciting fighters to watch in the bantamweight class.
TJ Dillashaw
TJ Dillashaw is one of the most accomplished bantamweights in UFC history. A two-time UFC Bantamweight Champion, Dillashaw’s journey has been a rollercoaster ride. Dillashaw’s first reign as champion came after his victory over Renan Barão in 2014, where he showcased his elite striking and footwork. However, Dillashaw was stripped of his title after testing positive for EPO in 2019, putting a pause on his career.
Dillashaw made his return in 2021 against Cory Sandhagen, and although he lost the fight by split decision, his performance showed that he was still a top contender. Dillashaw’s footwork, movement, and striking make him one of the most dangerous fighters in the bantamweight division, and he is always a threat to reclaim the title.
Dillashaw’s ability to make adjustments in the cage and his well-rounded skill set make him a contender in any fight, and his comeback journey is one that fans will be watching closely.
Rob Font
Rob Font is one of the most consistent fighters in the bantamweight division, known for his crisp boxing and powerful striking. Font’s impressive hands have earned him several key victories, including a notable win over Cody Garbrandt in 2021. Font’s pressure and relentless striking have made him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the top 10.
Although he suffered a setback against Cory Sandhagen in 2022, Font remains a top-ranked bantamweight and one of the hardest hitters in the division. His boxing fundamentals and striking output make him a challenge for anyone who has to face him.
FAQs
Who is the current UFC Bantamweight Champion?
The reigning Bantamweight Champion is Aljamain Sterling. Sterling claimed the title in March 2021 after a controversial disqualification win over Petr Yan. Since then, Sterling has defended his belt successfully, further solidifying his place at the top of the division with impressive performances, including his win over T.J. Dillashaw.
What is the current top 5 in the bantamweight rankings?
The current top 5 bantamweight contenders include Aljamain Sterling (Champion), followed by former champion Petr Yan, the rising star Sean O’Malley, former title challenger TJ Dillashaw, and the hard-hitting Marlon Vera. These fighters are all potential title challengers, with several eagerly awaiting their shot at the champion.
How has Aljamain Sterling defended his title?
Aljamain Sterling’s title defenses have showcased his grappling and ground control skills. His most recent defense against T.J. Dillashaw was a dominant performance, and before that, his victory over Petr Yan cemented his position as the champion. Sterling’s style revolves around controlling opponents on the ground, with elite wrestling and submissions.
What makes Petr Yan such a dangerous fighter?
Petr Yan is known for his precision striking and tactical fight IQ. Despite his controversial loss to Aljamain Sterling, Yan remains one of the most dangerous fighters in the bantamweight division. His striking, particularly his ability to control distance and land clean shots, combined with his resilience, make him a top contender for the title.
What’s next for Sean O’Malley?
Sean O’Malley, who is currently ranked third, has been on an impressive rise in the bantamweight division. Known for his unorthodox striking and knockout power, O’Malley is widely considered one of the brightest prospects in the UFC. His next move is likely a top-tier title fight, with many fans and analysts believing he could be a future champion if he continues his upward trajectory.
In summary
The UFC Bantamweight division is currently filled with an incredible array of talent, with each fighter bringing their unique skill set to the table. As of 2025, Aljamain Sterling holds the title, but the top contenders like Merab Dvalishvili, Petr Yan, and Cory Sandhagen are all gunning for a shot at the belt.
With a mix of veteran fighters and hungry young prospects, the bantamweight division promises to be one of the most competitive weight classes in the UFC for the foreseeable future. As the rankings continue to evolve and new matchups emerge, fans can look forward to some incredible fights and potential title-changing moments in the coming years. Whether it’s a rematch between Sterling and his contenders, or the rise of a new champion, the bantamweight division is sure to remain one of the most exciting in the UFC.
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