Rising UFC Stars
In MMA, fighters under 30 are often seen as young prospects or even inexperienced. But many of them are already making waves in the sport, especially in the UFC. Here’s a countdown of the top seven UFC fighters under 30, showcasing some potential future champions of the Octagon.
Payton Talbott Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
7. Payton Talbott (9-0)
- 26 years old
Payton Talbott earns his spot as a rising star in the bantamweight division. With a perfect 3-0 record in the UFC, all finishes, Talbott has already demonstrated both striking power and submission skills. He’s only gone to decision once in his career, and 2025 could be a breakout year for him. Talbott faces Raoni Barcelos at UFC 311, and a win could catapult him into the top 15. By the end of 2025, he could be sitting comfortably in the rankings between #8 and #12.
Image credit: Getty Images
6. Ian Garry (15-1)
- 27 years old
Ian Garry recently faced his first professional loss but came out with more hype and respect than ever. Despite losing to Shavkat Rakhmonov, Garry managed to win two rounds against a dangerous opponent, proving he belongs among the elite. Expect Garry to bounce back in 2025 with two fights—one likely a rebound bout to regain momentum and another against a top-5 opponent. His competitive loss will undoubtedly refine his style and make him a more dangerous contender.
Photo | ESPN
5. Jack Della Maddalena (17-2)
- 28 years old
Jack Della Maddalena stands out for his exceptional boxing skills. His understanding of striking mechanics and body shot combinations make him a fan favorite. However, he lands at #5 due to some inconsistencies, including a tough fight against Gilbert Burns, where he was trailing 0-2 before the knockout, and struggles with lesser opponents. With the UFC eyeing the Australian market, Maddalena could be booked for a big fight in Australia or the UK, potentially against Leon Edwards.
Photo | UFC
4. Nassourdine Imavov (15-4)
- 29 years old
Nassourdine Imavov is on the cusp of turning 30 but still makes the list. After leaving MMA Factory, his style has improved significantly, earning him three consecutive wins. Imavov is set to face Israel Adesanya for the #2 spot in the middleweight rankings. With Adesanya on a decline, this could be the perfect matchup for Nassourdine. If he secures a dominant win, a title shot in late 2025 is within reach, though many factors need to align for that to happen.
Photo | UFC
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3. Arman Tsarukyan (22-3)
- 28 years old
Arman Tsarukyan’s resume speaks for itself, with wins over Charles Oliveira, Beneil Dariush, Joel Alvarez, and Damir Ismagulov. He also arguably defeated Mateusz Gamrot, though the judges thought otherwise. However, against Islam Makhachev, Tsarukyan is still considered an underdog. While an upset is possible, Makhachev’s slight advantages in multiple areas—grappling, striking, and fight IQ—make him a tough hurdle for Arman. A title shot could be next, but the path won’t be easy.
Photo | ESPN
2. Umar Nurmagomedov (18-0)
- 28 years old
Umar Nurmagomedov lands at #2 with an asterisk, as his most significant win so far is a dominant decision over Cory Sandhagen. He’s set to face Merab Dvalishvili for the bantamweight title, where he is the favorite due to his superior technical skill set. If Umar secures the belt, his spot in this ranking will be fully justified. His undefeated record and connection to the legendary Nurmagomedov family make him one of the most intriguing young fighters in the UFC.

Photo | UFC
1. Ilia Topuria (16-0)
- 27 years old
Ilia Topuria is the clear #1 on this list, already a UFC champion with one title defense under his belt at just 27 years old. In 2024, he dismantled two divisional legends, solidifying himself as the best young fighter in the UFC. Known for his exceptional boxing and grappling skills, Topuria has teased retiring by 30, but even with just over two years left, he has plenty of time to shake up the division further. His combination of elite striking and wrestling makes him a complete nightmare for any opponent.