As 2025 draws to a close, the women’s pound-for-pound rankings in mixed martial arts (MMA) reflect the ever-evolving landscape of the sport. With results finalized through December 13, here is a look at the top 15 fighters making waves in various divisions.
Leading the list is Valentina Shevchenko, boasting an impressive record of 26 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw. Currently the UFC Flyweight champion, Shevchenko showcased her dominance by defeating Zhang Weili via unanimous decision on November 15 at UFC 322. This victory not only added another title fight win to her extensive career tally but also placed her alongside Amanda Nunes for the most title-fight victories in UFC history. At 37, Shevchenko is showing no signs of slowing down, firmly establishing her legacy as one of the greatest in the sport.
Following her is Kayla Harrison, who holds a record of 19-1 as the UFC Bantamweight champion. Harrison made headlines with her second-round submission win over Julianna Peña on June 7, and she is set to face Nunes in a highly anticipated matchup on January 24. This clash could be one for the ages, as both fighters are esteemed for their skills and tenacity, raising excitement in the MMA community.
Cris Cyborg, another stellar athlete, adds to her formidable reputation with a record that features decisive victories. Although she recently faced a setback against Shevchenko, her ambitions for future bouts remain high, particularly with a potential fight against Dakota Ditcheva on the horizon.
Zhang Weili, despite her recent loss to Shevchenko, previously defended her strawweight title three consecutive times and remains a tough competitor worth noting as she contemplates a return to her original weight class.
Additionally, the rankings highlight several rising stars. Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot have both shown promise in the flyweight division, with Blanchfield aiming for redemption after a previous loss. Meanwhile, Larissa Pacheco and Tatiana Suarez continue to make noise in their respective divisions, indicating that the competition remains fierce across the board.
A key takeaway from these rankings is the continued emergence of new talent alongside established champions, promising exciting matchups ahead. With fighters like Natalia Silva and Dakota Ditcheva making their names known, the future of women’s MMA looks bright.
This year has not only been about established stars but also about newcomers and emerging challengers, which bodes well for the growth of the sport. As discussions around potential matchups heat up, fans eagerly await what 2026 will bring in women’s mixed martial arts.