Overview
Boxing may have posed a serious threat to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in 2025, as the sport of boxing saw significant resurgence and high-profile bouts. Nevertheless, the UFC continues to put on exciting shows featuring elite athletes who are revolutionizing the fight game. Those who have performed the best in the octagon thus far are highlighted in this UFC Fighter of the Year 2025.
This list isn’t pound-for-pound. Instead, it highlights combatants who:
- Faced formidable rivals
- Produced significant victories
- Remained active all year long.
Let’s examine the top ten competitors who had a significant influence on the UFC this year.
2025’s Top 10 UFC Fighters
1. Makhachev, Islam
Dominant Reign, Lightweight Champion
In the lightweight division, Islam Makhachev has maintained his supremacy. Makhachev has successfully defended his title twice this year, including a late victory over Dustin Poirier and a resounding victory over Arman Tsarukyan.
Important Statistics:
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| 2025 Record | 2-0 |
| Title Defences | Two |
| Notable Attacks Performed | 168 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 55% |
2. O’Malley, Sean
A Rising Bantamweight Star
O’Malley is one of the most intriguing bantamweights and a marketing gem for the UFC. He solidified his position among the top UFC stars with an incredible performance against Merab Dvalishvili.
Notable Victories:
KO’s victory over Merab Dvalishvili
Effective defense against Cory Sandhagen
3. Aspinall, Tom
Burning Heavyweight Interim Champion
Aspinall took over since Jon Jones was still out. He gained elite respect for his brutal ground-and-pound finish of Sergei Pavlovich and his swift TKO of Ciryl Gane.
Metrics of Performance:
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| 2025 Victories | 2 |
| Knockouts | 2 |
| Average Duration of Combat | 2:35 |
Weili Zhang
Excellence in Women’s Strawweight
Weili defeated Yan Xiaonan and Amanda Lemos in a spectacular title defense. She is a complete fighter because of her stamina and developing ground game.
Results:
Two successful title defenses
Complete takedown protection
5. Edwards, Leon
Welterweight Silent Assassin
The current welterweight champion silenced detractors with accurate striking and better grappling after defeating Belal Muhammad in a five-round masterclass.
Important Numbers:
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| 2025 Record | 1-0 |
| Belal vs. Octagon Control Time | 8 minutes |
6. Pereira, Alex
Powerhouse of Light Weight and Power
When Pereira knocked out Jamahal Hill, he made a daring statement. He is a real threat in any division because of his knockout ability.
Performance Summary:
KO victory at UFC 302
Keeps the completion rate at 80%.
7. Topuria Ilia
Increasing Featherweight Competitors
Alexander Volkanovski ended his long-standing dominance and became a fan favorite when Ilia Topuria stunned the division with a one-punch knockout.
Highlight of Statistics:
68% is the striking accuracy.
KO victory over the defending champion
8. Grasso, Alexa
H2: Remaining Firm
In their trilogy fight, Grasso successfully defended her flyweight title against Valentina Shevchenko. Although the fight ended in a decision, she received high marks for her mental toughness and consistency.
Important Information:
In 2025, the title was kept.
Fight of the Night awards
9. Chimaev Khamzat
Outstanding Display in Middleweight Debut
Chimaev called out the leading contenders after making a strong comeback against Jared Cannonier. He still dominates with his wrestling-heavy style.
Highlights of Fight Stats:
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Takedown Success Rate | 90% |
| Average Control Time Per Fight | 6:30 |
10. Gamrot, Mateusz
H2: The Lightweight Division’s Dark Horse
Gamrot is quietly making a name for himself in the lightweight division after defeating ranked opponents twice by decision. Although his grappling-heavy style may not impress fans, it is effective in combat.
Fight IQ Data:
| Metric | Stat |
|---|---|
| Record for 2025 | 2-0 |
| Control Time Per Fight | 7 minutes |
![Dynamic UFC Art Image for UFC Fighter of the Year 2025 [Power Ranking] the Global Sports Arenas](https://images.stockcake.com/public/1/2/e/12e1f593-7397-4d88-8599-f7508d552a5e/dynamic-ufc-art-stockcake.jpg)
Which sport had a better year in 2025, boxing or UFC?
| Self-Control | Highlights |
|---|---|
| The UFC | Rising stars, several title changes, and steady performance |
| Boxing | Tank Davis rumors, Canelo vs. Crawford build-up, and Pacquiao’s return |
With its consistency, activity, and unadulterated excitement, UFC continues to thrive while boxing has made waves with well-known names.
In conclusion
The tenacity, talent, and resolve that fighters exhibit over a competitive year are reflected in the top 10 UFC Fighter of the Year 2025 rankings. The octagon has witnessed some of the most exciting action in combat sports, from dominant champions to explosive newcomers.
These rankings are subject to change as the year progresses. With significant victories, fighters like Dustin Poirier, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Erin Blanchfield could move up the rankings. Watch this space for additional updates. These ten athletes currently define the UFC 2025 elite. Source!
