UPDATE: In an electrifying night at UFC 320 on October 4, 2025, champions Merab Dvalishvili and Alex Pereira showcased their dominance in the octagon, leading to significant shifts in the ESPN pound-for-pound rankings.
Dvalishvili displayed a relentless performance, successfully defending his bantamweight title against Cory Sandhagen. The fight lasted the full five rounds, with Dvalishvili landing an impressive 20 takedowns, the second most in UFC history. His commanding victory extended his remarkable winning streak to 14 fights and solidified his position at No. 3 in the pound-for-pound rankings.
Meanwhile, Pereira reclaimed the light heavyweight title in a stunning fashion. The main event saw him knock down Magomed Ankalaev just 1 minute and 20 seconds into the fight, delivering a flurry of punches that forced the referee to stop the bout. This decisive victory propelled Pereira up the rankings, landing him at No. 5.
The contrasting styles of both champions highlight the dynamic nature of the sport. Dvalishvili’s tactical mastery and endurance were evident as he controlled the fight against Sandhagen, while Pereira’s explosive power and aggression showcased his return to form in the light heavyweight division.
As the rankings settle, the women’s pound-for-pound list remains unchanged, but anticipation builds for the upcoming title clash between Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern at UFC 321 on October 25, which is expected to shake things up further.
For fans eager to keep up with the latest developments, the next UFC events are crucial. Tom Aspinall will defend his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321, promising another night of thrilling action.
The latest rankings reflect the fighters’ performances over the past year, emphasizing that only those who have competed recently or have upcoming fights are eligible. As the MMA landscape continues to evolve, both Dvalishvili and Pereira’s victories serve as a reminder of the fierce competition within the octagon.
For the complete and up-to-date ESPN divisional MMA rankings, visit their website.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates as the MMA world gears up for more intense matchups and shifting dynamics in the rankings!
