How Are MMA Rankings Determined?
rankings for MMA fighters are determined by expert panels based on recent performances, quality of opponents, win-loss records, and overall skill. For example, in the men’s pound-for-pound rankings, Jon Jones holds the top spot, followed by champions like Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev. Similarly, in the women’s pound-for-pound rankings, Alexa Grasso and Zhang Weili rank highly. In the lightweight division, Islam Makhachev is the reigning champion, with Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje as top contenders. These rankings shift frequently, with victories, losses, and inactivity impacting a fighter’s position.
Different Ranking Systems
While some promotions, like the UFC, maintain their official rankings, there are other outlets, such as media and fan-driven rankings, which may differ. For example, different organizations might rank fighters based on their performance in other leagues, adding a layer of complexity to the MMA rankings ecosystem.
Why MMA Rankings Matter
Rankings play a significant role in the sport as they influence matchmaking and the anticipation of certain bouts. Fighters ranked in the top five of their division are often considered title contenders, while those in the top ten are viewed as elite competitors. Lower-ranked fighters or newcomers to the rankings may use their position as motivation to challenge higher-ranked opponents and secure their place among the sport’s elite.
Rankings Generate Excitement
For fans, rankings help generate excitement around upcoming fights, as everyone loves to see how a top contender matches up against a rising star.