The UFC lightweight division is one of the most competitive and exciting weight classes in mixed martial arts (MMA). Known for its blend of technical grappling, explosive striking, and high-octane action, the 155-pound division has produced some of the sport’s biggest stars.
As of July 2025, the UFC lightweight rankings are buzzing with talent, led by a new champion and a stacked roster of contenders. In this article, we’ll dive into the latest UFC lightweight rankings, highlight the key fighters, and explore what’s next for this dynamic division.
UFC Lightweight Rankings: The Current Landscape
The UFC lightweight division (146-155 lbs) is a hotbed of talent, with fighters vying for the coveted title and a chance to cement their legacy. The rankings, updated as of July 17, 2025, after UFC on ESPN: Lewis vs. Teixeira, reflect the division’s depth and unpredictability.
UFC Lightweight Champion: Ilia Topuria
Record: 17-0-0
Last Fight: KO win vs. Charles Oliveira (June 28, 2025, UFC 317)
Next Fight: TBD
Overview: Ilia Topuria, known as “El Matador,” has taken the MMA world by storm. After dominating the featherweight division, Topuria vacated his 145-pound title to pursue lightweight glory. His first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 made him the 10th UFC fighter to win titles in two weight classes.
Topuria’s blend of knockout power, wrestling, and jiu-jitsu makes him a formidable champion. Fans are eagerly awaiting his next move, with potential matchups against top contenders or even a grudge match with Paddy Pimblett at UFC 318.
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Top 15 UFC Lightweight Rankings
| Rank | Fighter | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Islam Makhachev | 27-1-0 |
| 2 | Arman Tsarukyan | 22-3-0 |
| 3 | Charles Oliveira | 35-11-0 |
| 4 | Justin Gaethje | 26-5-0 |
| 5 | Max Holloway | 26-8-0 |
| 6 | Dustin Poirier | 30-9-0 |
| 7 | Dan Hooker | 24-12-0 |
| 8 | Mateusz Gamrot | 25-3-0 |
| 9 | Beneil Dariush | 23-6-1 |
| 10 | Paddy Pimblett | 23-3-0 |
| 11 | Rafael Fiziev | 13-4-0 |
| 12 | Renato Moicano | 20-7-1 |
| 13 | Michael Chandler | 23-10-0 |
| 14 | Benoit Saint-Denis | 14-3-0 |
| 15 | Grant Dawson | 23-2-1 |
Key Storylines in the Lightweight Division for UFC 318
Ilia Topuria’s Title Reign
Topuria’s meteoric rise has made him the face of the lightweight division. His knockout of Oliveira at UFC 317 showcased his devastating power, but with Makhachev moving to welterweight, Topuria faces a new set of challengers. A potential clash with Paddy Pimblett at UFC 318 is generating buzz, especially after their heated exchanges. UFC CEO Dana White has expressed mixed feelings about the matchup, but fans are eager to see if “The Baddy” can back up his trash talk against the undefeated champion.
The Holloway-Poirier Showdown at UFC 318
UFC 318, set for July 20, 2025, features a blockbuster lightweight bout between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier. This fight could have major implications for the division, as both fighters are former title challengers with massive fan bases. A win for Holloway could propel him back into the title picture, while Poirier aims to cement his legacy before potentially retiring.
Islam Makhachev’s Welterweight Quest
Makhachev’s decision to vacate the lightweight title and challenge for the welterweight belt against Jack Della Maddalena has left the division in flux. If Makhachev returns to 155 pounds, a superfight with Topuria could headline a future event like UFC 318. For now, his absence opens the door for new contenders to rise.
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Rising Stars and Dark Horses
The lightweight division is known for its depth, and several fighters are poised to break into the top tier. Paddy Pimblett’s rapid ascent, highlighted by his win over Chandler, has made him a polarizing figure. His potential title shot at UFC 318 could be a defining moment.
Meanwhile, fighters like Ignacio Bahamondes and Joel Alvarez, who recently cracked the rankings, are ones to watch. Bahamondes debuted at No. 15 after his win at UFC 313, while Alvarez’s victory at UFC Tampa earned him a spot.
What’s Next for the UFC Lightweight Division?
The lightweight division is at a crossroads in 2025. With Topuria as champion, Makhachev chasing welterweight glory, and veterans like Oliveira, Poirier, and Holloway still in the mix, the 155-pound class is as unpredictable as ever. UFC 318 will likely shape the division’s future, with the Holloway-Poirier fight and potential title implications on the line.
The UFC lightweight rankings in 2025 showcase a division brimming with talent, from the undefeated champion Ilia Topuria to battle-tested veterans like Charles Oliveira and Dustin Poirier. With UFC 318 on the horizon, the division is poised for seismic shifts. Whether it’s Topuria defending his title, Holloway and Poirier stealing the show, or rising stars like Pimblett making waves, the lightweight division continues to deliver excitement.
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