The UFC middleweight division has long been a hotbed of talent, producing some of the most skilled and thrilling mixed martial artists in the world. As we enter 2024, the competition in this 185-pound weight class has reached fever pitch, with a new crop of contenders vying for supremacy and the coveted UFC middleweight championship.
From the reigning champion’s dominance to the rise of new stars and the return of former greats, the top 15 UFC middleweight rankings are a true reflection of the division’s depth and excitement.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the fighters who have etched their names in the annals of UFC history, dissecting their skills, accomplishments, and potential for future glory. Buckle up, as we take you on a journey through the ranks of the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization.
UFC Middleweight Division
The UFC middleweight division has long been a breeding ground for some of the most exciting and talented mixed martial artists in the world. Weighing in at a limit of 185 pounds, this weight class showcases a perfect blend of speed, power, and technical prowess.
From legendary champions like Anderson Silva and Rich Franklin to modern-day greats like Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker, the middleweight division has produced countless memorable battles and iconic moments in the Octagon.
As the sport of mixed martial arts continues to evolve and gain mainstream popularity, the middleweight ranks have become increasingly competitive. Fighters from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, including wrestling, boxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, converge in this division, creating a melting pot of styles and strategies.
The result is a constant struggle for dominance, with each fighter striving to prove their superiority and claim the coveted UFC middleweight championship.
Current Top 15 Rankings:
The UFC middleweight rankings are a reflection of the intense competition within the division. These rankings are determined by a combination of factors, including recent performances, overall win-loss records, quality of opposition, and the potential for future title contention. As of [current date], the official UFC middleweight rankings are as follows:
- Dricus Du Plessis (Champion)
- Sean Strickland
- Israel Adesanya
- Robert Whittaker
- Jared Cannonier
- Marvin Vettori
- Brendan Allen
- Paulo Costa
- Nassourdine Imavov
- Roman Dolidze
- Jack Hermansson
- Derek Brunson
- Chris Curtis
- Andre Muniz
- Kelvin Gastelum
Please note that these rankings are subject to change based on future fights and performances.
Current UFC Middleweight Champion – Dricus Du Plessis
Hailing from South Africa, Dricus Du Plessis (18-2) has taken the UFC middleweight division by storm. With a relentless and well-rounded fighting style, Du Plessis has proven himself worthy of the coveted UFC middleweight championship. His journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable, with victories over top contenders like Robert Whittaker and Marvin Vettori.
Du Plessis’ strengths lie in his ability to blend striking and grappling seamlessly. His powerful boxing combinations and devastating kicks are complemented by his proficient wrestling and submission skills. This versatility has made him a nightmare for opponents, as he can effectively adapt his game plan and exploit any weaknesses.
As the reigning champion, Du Plessis is expected to face a string of formidable challengers in the coming year. His reign will undoubtedly be tested, but his tenacity and unwavering determination have already etched his name in the annals of UFC history.
1 Middleweight Fighter – Sean Strickland
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 1 | Sean Strickland | 26-4 | 16 KO/TKO, 5 Submissions, 5 Decisions | 4 Decisions |
Sean Strickland has emerged as one of the most formidable contenders in the UFC middleweight division. With an impressive record of 26-4, Strickland’s well-rounded skillset and unorthodox striking have made him a force to be reckoned with.
Known for his relentless pressure and aggressive style, Strickland has proven himself against top-tier opponents like Jack Hermansson and Uriah Hall. His ability to smoothly transition between striking and grappling makes him a challenging puzzle for any opponent to solve.
Strickland’s path to the top has been far from conventional, but his tenacity and unwavering confidence have propelled him to the upper echelons of the middleweight ranks. With a potential title shot on the horizon, Strickland is poised to make a strong case for championship gold.
“I’m not here to make friends, I’m here to knock people out and take the belt.” – Sean Strickland
2 Middleweight Fighter – Israel Adesanya
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 2 | Israel Adesanya | 23-2 | 15 KO/TKO, 1 Submission, 7 Decisions | 2 Decisions |
Israel Adesanya, also known as “The Last Stylebender,” is a striking savant and a fan favorite in the UFC middleweight division. With a background in kickboxing and a unique, fluid fighting style, Adesanya has captivated audiences with his technical prowess and showmanship.
Adesanya’s rise to the top has been nothing short of meteoric. After capturing the interim and undisputed UFC middleweight championships, he defended the title multiple times before moving up to light heavyweight in a failed bid for champ-champ status.
Despite his recent setback, Adesanya remains a dominant force in the middleweight ranks. His precision striking, creativity, and ability to neutralize opponents’ strengths make him a constant threat to reclaim the title he once held.
3 Middleweight Fighter – Robert Whittaker
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 3 | Robert Whittaker | 24-6 | 8 KO/TKO, 3 Submissions, 13 Decisions | 3 KO/TKO, 2 Submissions, 1 Decision |
Robert Whittaker, the former UFC middleweight champion, is a well-rounded mixed martial artist who has consistently proven his mettle in the Octagon. With a professional record of 24-6, Whittaker’s blend of striking, wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills make him a formidable opponent for anyone in the division.
Whittaker’s reign as the middleweight champion was marked by impressive victories over top contenders like Yoel Romero and Jacare Souza. However, his title reign was cut short by a stunning defeat at the hands of Israel Adesanya.
Since then, Whittaker has been on a mission to reclaim the championship he once held. His recent performances have demonstrated his resilience and commitment to improvement, making him a constant threat to the division’s top contenders.
4 Middleweight Fighter – Jared Cannonier
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 4 | Jared Cannonier | 16-6 | 9 KO/TKO, 2 Submissions, 5 Decisions | 3 KO/TKO, 1 Submission, 2 Decisions |
Jared Cannonier’s journey in the UFC has been anything but ordinary. Originally competing in the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions, Cannonier made the strategic decision to drop down to middleweight, and the move has paid dividends.
With a professional record of 16-6, Cannonier has showcased his power and versatility in the 185-pound weight class. His knockout victories over Derek Brunson and Anderson Silva have solidified his status as a top contender.
Cannonier’s explosiveness and heavy hands make him a constant threat in the striking department, but he has also demonstrated a well-rounded game, capable of holding his own in the grappling exchanges.
As he continues to refine his skills and capitalize on his newfound success at middleweight, Cannonier’s sights are set firmly on the championship belt.
5 Middleweight Fighter – Marvin Vettori
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 5 | Marvin Vettori | 19-5-1 | 5 KO/TKO, 6 Submissions, 8 Decisions | 2 KO/TKO, 2 Submissions, 1 Decision |
Representing Italy, Marvin Vettori has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the UFC middleweight division. With a professional record of 19-5-1, Vettori’s grappling prowess and tenacity have earned him a well-deserved spot in the top five.
Vettori’s strength lies in his ability to seamlessly blend wrestling and submission skills. His relentless pressure and grinding style have proven to be a nightmare for many opponents, as he consistently looks to control the pace and dictate the action.
Despite a close split decision loss to Israel Adesanya in their title bout, Vettori has remained undeterred in his pursuit of the middleweight crown. His recent victories over Paulo Costa and Jack Hermansson have solidified his status as a top contender, and he is determined to leave no doubt in his next title bid.
6 Middleweight Fighter – Brendan Allen
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 6 | Brendan Allen | 23-5 | 12 KO/TKO, 5 Submissions, 6 Decisions | 2 KO/TKO, 2 Submissions, 1 Decision |
Brendan Allen has been making waves in the UFC middleweight division with his impressive skill set and unwavering determination. With a professional record of 23-5, Allen has proven himself to be a well-rounded mixed martial artist capable of competing with the best in the world.
Allen’s strengths lie in his versatility and ability to adapt to any situation. Whether it’s striking, wrestling, or submissions, he has demonstrated proficiency in all areas, making him a challenging puzzle for opponents to solve.
One of Allen’s standout performances was his dominant victory over Sean Strickland, showcasing his ability to execute a well-rounded game plan and exploit his opponent’s weaknesses. This win propelled him into the top ten and put him on the radar as a potential future champion.
With his sights set on the middleweight title, Allen’s relentless drive and willingness to continuously improve make him a formidable force in the division.
7 Middleweight Fighter – Paulo Costa
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 7 | Paulo Costa | 14-2 | 11 KO/TKO, 3 Decisions | 1 KO/TKO, 1 Decision |
Paulo Costa, also known as “Borrachinha” (Portuguese for “little drunk”), is a fan-favorite middleweight known for his explosive striking and chiseled physique. With a professional record of 14-2, Costa has etched his name in the annals of UFC history with his electrifying performances.
Costa’s bread and butter is his powerful and technical striking. His boxing skills, coupled with his devastating kicks and knees, make him a constant threat to end fights with a single blow. His relentless pressure and aggression have overwhelmed many opponents, leading to highlight-reel knockouts.
Despite suffering a setback in his title bid against Israel Adesanya, Costa has bounced back with impressive wins over Jared Cannonier and Luke Rockhold. His unwavering confidence and fighting spirit have endeared him to fans worldwide, and he remains a top contender in the middleweight division.
As Costa continues to refine his skills and maintain his physical prowess, the prospect of another title shot looms on the horizon, and the Brazilian powerhouse is determined to seize the opportunity.
8 Middleweight Fighter – Nassourdine Imavov
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 8 | Nassourdine Imavov | 13-3 | 4 KO/TKO, 5 Submissions, 4 Decisions | 2 Decisions, 1 Submission |
Nassourdine Imavov, a French mixed martial artist of Russian descent, has quickly established himself as a rising force in the UFC middleweight division. With a professional record of 13-3, Imavov’s well-rounded skillset and versatility have made him a formidable opponent for anyone in the rankings.
Imavov’s strength lies in his ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling. His striking arsenal, which includes a diverse range of kicks and punches, is complemented by his proficient wrestling and submission skills.
One of Imavov’s standout performances was his dominant victory over Joaquin Buckley, where he showcased his ability to execute a calculated game plan and neutralize his opponent’s strengths. This win solidified his position in the top ten and put him on the radar as a potential future title contender.
As Imavov continues to gain experience and refine his skills, his combination of technique, athleticism, and determination make him a fighter to watch in the highly competitive middleweight division.
9 Middleweight Fighter – Roman Dolidze
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 9 | Roman Dolidze | 12-1 | 5 KO/TKO, 4 Submissions, 3 Decisions | 1 Decision |
Roman Dolidze, a Georgian mixed martial artist, has rapidly risen through the ranks of the UFC middleweight division, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. With a professional record of 12-1, Dolidze’s well-rounded skillset and relentless pursuit of victory have earned him a spot in the top ten.
Dolidze’s strengths lie in his ability to blend striking and grappling seamlessly. His powerful strikes, coupled with his proficient wrestling and submission skills, make him a constant threat to end fights in spectacular fashion.
One of Dolidze’s standout performances was his impressive victory over Jack Hermansson, where he showcased his ability to adapt to adversity and execute a game plan that led to a dominant win. This victory solidified his position as a top contender and put him on the radar for potential title aspirations.
As Dolidze continues to hone his skills and gain valuable experience, his relentless drive and unwavering determination make him a fighter to watch in the highly competitive middleweight division.
10 Middleweight Fighter – Jack Hermansson
| Rank | Fighter | Record | Wins | Losses |
| 10 | Jack Hermansson | 23-7 | 6 KO/TKO, 4 Submissions, 13 Decisions | 3 KO/TKO, 2 Submissions, 2 Decisions |
Jack Hermansson, a seasoned veteran of the UFC middleweight division, has solidified his position as a top-ten contender through his consistent performances and well-rounded skillset. With a professional record of 23-7, Hermansson’s experience and versatility have made him a formidable opponent for anyone in the rankings.
Hermansson’s strengths lie in his ability to adapt to any situation and implement a strategic game plan. His striking skills, coupled with his proficient grappling and submission abilities, make him a threat in all areas of mixed martial arts.
One of Hermansson’s standout performances was his dominant victory over Kelvin Gastelum, where he showcased his ability to execute a calculated game plan and neutralize his opponent’s strengths. This win solidified his position in the top ten and put him on the radar as a potential future title contender.
As Hermansson continues to refine his skills and gain valuable experience, his combination of technique, strategy, and determination make him a fighter to watch in the highly competitive middleweight division.
Conclusion
The UFC middleweight division is arguably one of the most stacked and competitive weight classes in mixed martial arts. From the reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis to the up-and-coming contenders like Sean Strickland, Brendan Allen, and Nassourdine Imavov, the top 15 rankings are filled with talented and skilled fighters, each vying for their shot at glory.
As the 2024 calendar unfolds, fans can expect a plethora of exciting matchups and potential shake-ups in the rankings. Fighters like Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker, former champions with a wealth of experience, are always lurking, ready to capitalize on any opportunity to reclaim their throne.
The depth and diversity of the middleweight division ensure that every fight is a potential barnburner, with fighters from various backgrounds and disciplines bringing their unique styles and strategies to the Octagon. From the explosive striking of Paulo Costa to the well-rounded game of Marvin Vettori, the division showcases a rich tapestry of martial arts disciplines.
As the rankings continue to evolve and new contenders emerge, one thing remains certain: the UFC middleweight division is poised to deliver some of the most captivating and memorable battles in the sport of mixed martial arts. Fans can anticipate a year filled with jaw-dropping moments, intense rivalries, and the crowning of new champions.
FAQs
What rank is Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev is the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, so he is not ranked in the middleweight division. Makhachev competes in the 155-pound weight class.
What rank is Kamaru Usman?
Kamaru Usman is the former UFC Welterweight Champion, who recently lost his title to Leon Edwards. Usman competes in the 170-pound weight class and is not ranked at middleweight.
Who is number one male UFC fighter?
While divisional rankings are essential, the UFC also maintains a pound-for-pound ranking system that ranks fighters across all weight classes based on their overall skill, accomplishments, and dominance. As of [current date], the number one male UFC fighter in the pound-for-pound rankings is [current P4P #1 fighter’s name and weight class].
Who is number 1 in women’s UFC?
As of April 2024, Zhang Weili is the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC’s women’s division. She is the strawweight champion, with a record of 25-3.
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Rockies Ripple is the founder and lead writer behind the independent blog tvplutos.com