The UFC Lightweight Division (155 lbs) remains one of the most stacked and exciting weight classes in MMA. With elite strikers, grapplers, and all-around warriors, the division constantly delivers fireworks. In 2025, the lightweight rankings feature a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars — all hungry for UFC gold.
UFC Lightweight Rankings (As of April 2025)
Fighter-by-Fighter Analysis
Islam Makhachev (Champion)
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Record: 25-1
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Style: Sambo, Wrestling, BJJ
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Analysis: Makhachev continues to dominate the division with his grappling-heavy style, reminiscent of Khabib Nurmagomedov. He’s improved his striking and has defended the title multiple times, showing calm composure and championship IQ. He’s the man to beat in 2025.
Charles Oliveira
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Record: 34-10 (1 NC)
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Style: BJJ, Muay Thai
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Analysis: “Do Bronx” holds the record for most finishes in UFC history. His aggressive submission game and dangerous striking make him a perennial threat. After recovering from injury, Oliveira is eyeing one more title run.
Dustin Poirier
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Record: 30-8 (1 NC)
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Style: Boxing, BJJ
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Analysis: A fan favorite and all-time great, Poirier’s durability and boxing continue to shine. Though he’s had multiple title shots, 2025 might be his last chance at lightweight gold.
Arman Tsarukyan
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Record: 22-3
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Style: Wrestling, Kickboxing
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Analysis: Arman’s win over Gaethje cemented his status as a top contender. With elite wrestling and cardio, he’s arguably the biggest threat to Makhachev’s reign. A title shot seems inevitable this year.
Mateusz Gamrot
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Record: 24-2
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Style: Wrestling, Grappling
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Analysis: Gamrot grinds opponents with relentless pressure and transitions. Though less flashy, he’s a nightmare for anyone in the division.
Justin Gaethje
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Record: 24-5
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Style: Striking, Wrestling (Defensive)
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Analysis: “The Highlight” lives up to his nickname with chaotic wars and brutal leg kicks. Gaethje is still a top draw, but after recent losses, he may need a big win to stay in title contention.
Benoît Saint Denis
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Record: 14-2
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Style: Aggressive Brawling, Submissions
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Analysis: The Frenchman is making waves with his relentless pace and finishing ability. With more experience, he could break into the top five soon.
Rafael Fiziev
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Record: 13-3
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Style: Muay Thai, Striking
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Analysis: Fiziev’s elite kickboxing makes him one of the most exciting strikers in the division. He’s had setbacks but remains a must-watch fighter.
Dan Hooker
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Record: 23-13
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Style: Kickboxing
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Analysis: A gritty veteran, Hooker continues to fight top talent. He’s a gatekeeper for rising contenders but always delivers action-packed bouts.
Jalin Turner
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Record: 14-7
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Style: Long-range Striker
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Analysis: Turner’s height and reach make him a unique challenge at 155. Inconsistencies aside, he remains a promising prospect.
Lightweight Division Trends in 2025
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Wrestling Dominance: The top 5 is heavily influenced by wrestlers like Makhachev, Tsarukyan, and Gamrot.
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Generational Shift: Veterans like Poirier and Gaethje may soon pass the torch to new blood like Saint Denis and Tsarukyan.
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Global Talent Pool: The division is now home to top talent from Russia, France, Poland, New Zealand, and the U.S.
As the lightweight war continues, Arman Tsarukyan stands out as the most likely contender to dethrone Makhachev, while dark horses like Saint Denis could surprise the division. However, dethroning the current champ will require near-perfect execution.
Final Thoughts
The UFC Lightweight Division in 2025 is a battlefield of elite skill, hunger, and evolving talent. Every matchup feels like a mini-title fight, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. From established icons to rising warriors, this division is MMA’s crown jewel.
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