The UFC just released its updated pound-for-pound rankings following UFC 308, and you might be surprised by the changes. Here’s a look at who climbed up and who slipped down after a night of high-stakes matchups.
UFC pound for pound rankings – The latest updates after UFC 308
Following the highly-anticipated 308 in Abu Dhabi, the latest pound-for-pound rankings were released on Tuesday, October 29, and there’s been a notable shake-up. In a career-defining performance, Ilia Topuria became the first fighter ever to knock out Max Holloway, a veteran known for having one of the best chins in UFC betting history.
Topuria dismantled Holloway with precision striking before sealing the deal with a devastating ground-and-pound finish in the third round. This impressive victory catapulted the 27-year-old Georgian to number 4 on the pound-for-pound list, marking his highest ranking yet and solidifying his position as the undisputed featherweight champion. Meanwhile, Holloway’s loss saw him slip to number 12, making way for Alexandre Pantoja, who moved up to take the number 11 spot.
Other notable changes to the UFC rankings after UFC 308
UFC 308 has not only reshuffled the pound-for-pound list but also brought seismic changes to the middleweight rankings, with Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev stealing the spotlight. After an explosive first-round finish against Robert “The Reaper” Whittaker – securing a jaw-crushing rear-naked choke – Chimaev has shot up from 13th to 3rd in the division.
His quick climb to the top solidifies his status as a serious title contender, with rumors swirling that he may be next to challenge Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight belt, despite Sean Strickland previously being in line.
Another big mover at middleweight is Sharaputdin Magomedov, claiming the 14th spot in the rankings after delivering a powerful knockout against Arman Petrosyan in the second round, which extended his undefeated run in the UFC. Magomedov’s regular activity and recent entry into the rankings marks him as another name to watch closely in a division that’s quickly heating up.
Here’s a look at the updated middleweight rankings following UFC 308:
- Sean Strickland
- Israel Adesanya
- Khamzat Chimaev (Rank increased by 10)
- Robert Whittaker (Rank decreased by 1)
- Nassourdine Imavov (Rank decreased by 1)
- Caio Borralho (Rank decreased by 1)
- Marvin Vettori (Rank decreased by 1)
- Jared Cannonier (Rank decreased by 1)
- Brendan Allen (Rank decreased by 1)
- Roman Dolidze (Rank decreased by 1)
- Paulo Costa (Rank decreased by 1)
- Jack Hermansson (Rank decreased by 1)
- Anthony Hernandez (Rank decreased by 1)
- Sharaputdin Magomedov (New ranking)
- Michel Pereira (Rank decreased by 1)
What’s next after UFC 308?
Following his standout performance at UFC 308, Ilia Topuria has firmly established himself as the dominant force in the featherweight division. The only matchup that makes real sense for him now is a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski. But if their second encounter goes anything like their first, Topuria may be holding onto the featherweight crown for a long time.
As for Khamzat Chimaev, it’s surprising that he didn’t break into the pound-for-pound rankings after UFC 308, especially with such an impressive first-round submission over former middleweight champ Robert Whittaker, which propelled him ten spots up in the middleweight rankings. However, he’s expected to face Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title next. If he can secure the belt, there’s no doubt he’ll claim a pound-for-pound spot, especially given that Du Plessis currently holds the 6th position on that list.
Another fighter to keep an eye on after UFC 308 is Magomed Ankalaev, who became the top contender at light heavyweight after a decisive win over Aleksandar Rakic. But his path to the title won’t be easy, with Alex “Poatan” Pereira standing in his way. Ankalaev will need to make serious adjustments if he hopes to take down Pereira, who’s riding an unstoppable streak and looks as dominant as ever.