Islam Makhachev has reclaimed the top spot in the UFC’s pound-for-pound men’s rankings. He achieved this by defeating Jack Della Maddalena to capture the welterweight title at UFC 322. This notable event took place in New York last week, solidifying Makhachev’s status as one of the elite fighters in mixed martial arts.
Makhachev’s Historic Achievement
At 34 years old, Makhachev is now recognized as the 11th two-division champion in UFC history. He ousted lightweight champion Ilia Topuria from the top ranking, a belt Makhachev previously held before vacating it in June.
Women’s Pound-for-Pound Rankings
In the women’s category, Kyrgyzstan’s Valentina Shevchenko continues to hold the top position. She recently defended her flyweight title against China’s Zhang Weili. Following her title defense, Weili has fallen to third place after vacating her strawweight championship.
- 1st: Valentina Shevchenko (flyweight champion)
- 2nd: Kayla Harrison (bantamweight champion)
- 3rd: Zhang Weili (flyweight)
Changes in the Welterweight Rankings
The welterweight rankings have also seen significant shifts. Former champion Leon Edwards has plummeted five places to ninth after suffering his third consecutive defeat, this time against Carlos Prates. Meanwhile, Ecuador’s Michael Morales emerged as the biggest riser, moving up to third after a first-round stoppage of Sean Brady.
- 1st: Islam Makhachev (welterweight champion)
- 3rd: Michael Morales
- 6th: Ian Machado Garry
- 2nd: Belal Muhammad
Morales is expected to closely watch the upcoming fight between Ian Machado Garry and Belal Muhammad on Saturday in Qatar. This bout could play a crucial role in determining who will next challenge Makhachev for the title.
