Climbing the Ranks and Defending Titles
From dominant champions defending their titles with ferocity to rising contenders making waves, the women's divisions in the UFC have become a hotbed of fierce competition and monumental moments. In this exploration of the UFC women's rankings, we'll dissect the standings across various weight classes, providing insights into the athletes who have climbed the ranks, defended their titles, and reigned supreme.
From Strawweight to Flyweight, the rankings serve as a barometer for the current state of women's MMA excellence.
Join us as we navigate the intricacies of each division, highlighting some of the key stories, triumphs, and challenges that define the captivating careers of these extraordinary mixed martial arts fighters!
Women's Strawweight Rankings
These fierce athletes, competing at 115 pounds (52.2 kg), display extraordinary skill and unbreakable spirit.
Top 15 Strawweights
Current Strawweight Champion - Zhang Weili
Zhang Weili, the dangerous UFC Women's Strawweight champion, has etched her name in MMA history. Hailing from China, Weili fights with an extremely dynamic skill set that leverages the best of striking and grappling.
Weili's MMA career includes a memorable title victory, and multiple title defenses since becoming Champion. At UFC 300, Weili defended her title against Yan Xiaonan after Weili won the bout via unanimous decision.
You can follow her journey on Instagram @zhangweilimma.
#1 Strawweight - Tatiana Suarez
Tatiana Suarez possesses an elite grappling pedigree, having been an Olympic wrestling hopeful. With an undefeated record, Suarez combines relentless takedowns with ground control, making her a bold presence.
Her tenacious style and unblemished record of 10 wins 0 losses position her as a promising title contender in the Strawweight division.
#2 Strawweight - Yan Xiaonan
Yan Xiaonan brings a versatile martial arts skill set and an impressive striking game to the octagon. Born in China and fighting for Team Alpha Male, Yan has made waves with her dominant performances, showcasing a blend of athleticism and precision. Xiaonan lost her most recent bout at UFC 300 after going 5 rounds with Strawweight Champion, Zhang Weili.
#3 Strawweight - Virna Jandiroba
Virna Jandiroba, a Brazilian powerhouse, holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Recognized for her submission prowess and tenacious ground game, Jandiroba has showcased her skills with notable victories. She possesses a combination of grappling expertise and striking that make her a compelling force in the division.
#4 Strawweight - Jéssica Andrade
Former UFC Women's Strawweight champion Jéssica Andrade, is known for her relentless aggression and knockout power. Hailing from Brazil, "Bate Estaca" (translated as Piledriver) has fought the best of the best, becoming a dominant force in the division.
Her tenacity and exciting fighting style make her a continuous fan favorite. In April 2024, Andrade defeated Marina Rodriguez at UFC 300 and was declared the winner by split decision.
#5 Strawweight - Amanda Lemos
Amanda Lemos, a powerful contender in the UFC Women's Strawweight division, has made a significant impact with her knockout prowess. Hailing from Brazil, Lemos has demonstrated devastating striking skills, earning her a reputation as a dynamic force. Her performances showcase a potent blend of power and precision.
#6 Strawweight - Mackenzie Dern
Mackenzie Dern brings world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the Octagon. The submission specialist from Brazil has transitioned seamlessly to MMA, showcasing her ground skills with numerous submission victories.
Dern now has a professional MMA record of 14 wins and 5 losses.
#7 Strawweight - Amanda Ribas
Amanda Ribas, a Brazilian talent in the UFC, combines striking and grappling with finesse. Known for her infectious personality outside the Octagon, Ribas displays a dynamic skill set inside it. With a balanced approach, she has secured notable victories, making her a clear fan favorite in the Strawweight class.
Dern's constant evolution adds layers to her arsenal, as she competes in the Strawweight ranks.
#8 Strawweight - Iasmin Luncido
Iasmin Lucindo is a Brazilian fighter who has won her last 4 fights in the UFC. At UFC 307, Lucindo fought Marina Rodriguez and won by split decision after 3 Rounds in the Octagon.
Lucindo now has a professional MMA record of 17 wins and 5 losses.
#9 Strawweight - Marina Rodriguez
Marina Rodriguez had the opportunity to face off against long time UFC veteran, Jéssica Andrade at UFC 300. Rodriguez's impressive performance and ability to control distance made for an exciting matchup.
The judges did not rule the fight in Rodriguez's favor and Rodriguez lost her next fight a few months later at UFC 307 against Iasmin Lucindo.
#10 Strawweight - Tabatha Ricci
Tabatha Ricci defeated Angela Hill at UFC on ESPN: Cannonier vs. Borralho in August 2024, moving Ricci up into the Top 10 of the Strawweight division.
Ricci now has a professional MMA record of 11 wins and 2 losses.
Women's Flyweight Rankings
The women's Flyweight division offers thrilling competition at 125 pounds (56.7 kg), boasting exceptional athletes who have battled and ascended through the ranks in pursuit of the coveted Flyweight title.
Top 15 Women's Flywweights
Current Flyweight Champion - Valentina Shevchenko
Valentina Shevchenko was born in Kyrgyzstan and has a very diverse skill set, blending striking and grappling to win fights. Her technical brilliance, athleticism, and strategic approach make her one of the most accomplished and feared fighters in the Women's Flyweight division.
Shevchenko starred as the coach competing against Alexa Grasso's team on the 2024 Season of The Ultimate Fighter.
In September 2024, Shevchenko fought Alexa Grasso for the third time. This time, Shevchenko came out on top with a win, making Shevchenko the new Women's Flyweight Champion.
Stay up to date with Shevchenko's journey as Champion on Instagram @bulletvalentina.
#1 Flyweight - Alexa Grasso
Alexa Grasso, the former Women's Flyweight champion, stands out for her crisp striking and technical prowess. Mexican fighter Alexa Grasso has evolved into a dynamic force in the Flyweight division and also starred as a coach on 2024's Season of The Ultimate Fighter.
At UFC 306, Grasso gave up her Championship title after losing by decision to Valentina Shevchenko.
#2 Flyweight - Manon Fiorot
Manon Fiorot brings dynamic striking and impressive athleticism to the Octagon. Hailing from France, Fiorot has garnered attention with her knockout power and well-rounded skills. Her exciting style and ability to finish fights make her a promising prospect in the Flyweight division.
At UFC on ESPN: Blanchfield vs. Fiorot, Fiorot defeated Erin Blanchfield, winning by unanimous decision. Fiorot has a current professional record of 12 wins and 1 loss.
#3 Flyweight - Erin Blanchfield
Erin Blanchfield also showcases a versatile skill set. Known for her grappling acumen, the American fighter has impressed with a combination of submissions and striking. Blanchfield's performances over UFC veterans like Jéssica Andrade as a rising star in the competitive landscape of the flyweight division.
In March 2024, Blanchfield lost to Manon Fiorot after going the distance. Blanchfield's next opponent has not been decided.
#4 Flyweight - Maycee Barber
Maycee Barber is most well known for her aggressive fighting style and finishing ability. Barber won her latest bout at UFC 299 against fellow Top 10 contender, Katlyn Cerminara by unanimous decision.
Barber's striking skills and determination continue to make her an exciting fighter to watch, as she competes in the Flyweight division.
#5 Flyweight - Rose Namajunas
Rose Namajunas won her most recent fight against Tracy Cortez at UFC on ESPN: Namajunas vs. Cortez. This victory earned Namajunas a Top 10 ranking in the Women's Flyweight division.
Namajunas has a current professional record of 13 wins and 6 losses.
#6 Flyweight - Natalia Silva
Natalia Silva made her UFC debut in 2022 where she defeated Jasmine Jasudavicius by unanimous decision. At UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady, Silva fought Jéssica Andrade with Silva being declared the winner after 3 rounds. Silva's UFC career is still fairly new but Silva has already establisehd herself as Top 10 contender.
#7 Flyweight - Katlyn Cerminara
Katlyn "Blonde Fighter" Cerminara has a current professional record of 18 wins and 6 losses. At a young age, Cerminara started training in martial arts.
Although Cerminara lost her most recent bout against Maycee Barber at UFC 299, Cerminara is sure to be back and ready to compete.
#8 Flyweight - Jéssica Andrade
Ranked in two separate divisions (Flyweight and Strawweight), Jéssica Andrade has proven herself as a top contender in both divisions. Andrade lost her most recent fight against Natalia Silva in September 2024 at UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Brady. Andrade has the most Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses in UFC Women's history.
#9 Flyweight - Amanda Ribas
Amanda Ribas is a fan favorite in the UFC Women's Flyweight division, bringing her own unique combination of charisma and skill. With a background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Ribas has a style that blends technical striking and grappling.
Her engaging personality, coupled with exciting performances have molded Ribas into a promising and entertaining contender.
#10 Flyweight - Viviane Araújo
Viviane Araújo is is a skilled Brazilian fighter and the #10 ranked Women's Bantamweight. Araújo has a well-rounded skill set. Known for her striking prowess and grappling finesse, Araújo's performances highlight her versatility.
Her dynamic style and ability to adapt in the Octagon make her a powerful presence in the competitive division.
Women's Bantamweight Rankings
The women's Bantamweight division, or 135-pound division is home to a few exceptional fighters who are battling to become (and stay) the Champion.
Top 15 Women's Bantamweights
Current Bantamweight Champion - Julianna Peña
Julianna Peña is the new UFC Women's Bantamweight champion. Known as "The Venezuelan Vixen", Peña now holds a professional MMA record of 12 wins and 5 losses.
Peña challenged Raquel Pennington for the championship belt at UFC 307 and after 5 Rounds of action, Peña was declared the winner by split decision.
Follow Peña's journey as the Bantamweight champ on Instagram @venezuelanvixen.
#1 Bantamweight - Raquel Pennington
Raquel Pennington is an American mixed martial artist recognized for her work ethic and well-rounded skills. At UFC 307, Pennington was defeated by Julianna Peña after fighting for 5 rounds to defend the Championship belt.
"Rocky" Pennington believes that she won the fight against Peña, but the judges did not agree. Pennington's next opponent has not been announced.
#2 Bantamweight - Kayla Harrison
Former Olympic Judoka and training partner of Ronda Rousey, Kayla Harrison made her UFC debut at UFC 300 in April 2024 where Harrison faced off against Holly Holm. At UFC 307, Harrison fought Ketlen Vieira, with Harrison winning by split decision.
Harrison now has a professional MMA record of 18 wins and 1 loss.
#3 Bantamweight - Ketlen Vieira
Back in July 2023, Brazilian mixed martial artist, Ketlen "Fenomeno" Vieira, won her fight against Pannie Kianzad at UFC Fight Night: Aspinall vs. Tybura. Her victory after their bout was ruled in favor of Fenomeno by unanimous decision.
After losing to Kayla Harrison at UFC 307, Vieira now has a professional record of 14 wins and 4 losses.
#4 Bantamweight - Macy Chiasson
Macy Chiasson, the #4 ranked Women's UFC Bantamweight, brings an aggressive style and impressive athleticism into the Octagon. The New Orleans native was featured on Season 28 of The Ultimate Fighter and has a professional fight record of 10 wins and 3 losses.
#5 Bantamweight - Norma Dumont
Norma Dumont is on a 5-fight win streak after defeating Irene Aldana at UFC 306 in September 2024. Dumont currently has a professional record of 12 wins and 2 losses. (One of which came by split decision against fellow Top 10 Bantamweight, Macy Chiasson.)
#6 Bantamweight - Irene Aldana
Irene Aldana is a Mexican mixed martial artist competing in the UFC Women's Bantamweight division. Recognized for her technical prowess and striking finesse, Aldana has showcased her skills in compelling matchups.
Her disciplined approach and evolving fight game have helped her earn a professional record of 15 wins and 8 losses.
#7 Bantamweight - Mayra Beuno Silva
Mayra Bueno Silva is a Brazilian mixed martial artist with a professional record of 10 wins and 4 losses. Known for her dynamic striking and submission skills, Silva has made an impact in the 135-pound division.
Her aggressive approach and evolving techniques have established Silva as a consistent presence in the women's lineup.
#8 Bantamweight - Holly Holm
Holly Holm is an American mixed martial artist known for her elite boxing background as a multiple-time world boxing champion. Holm initially gained fame for defeating Ronda Rousey in a historic KO upset.
Holm fought Kayla Harrison at UFC 300 and lost after tapping to a rear-naked choke. Although she lost her most recent bout, Holm remains a seasoned and accomplished Women's Bantamweight.
#9 Bantamweight - Karol Rosa
Karol Rosa is a Brazilian powerhouse with a professional record of 18 wins and 6 losses. Her precision striking and dynamic style make her a tough competitor.
Rosa makes nearly every fight a thrilling display of skill and tenacity, often going all 3 rounds.
#10 Bantamweight - Yana Santos
Russian fighter, Yana Santos has a professional MMA record of 15 wins and 8 losses.
In August 2024, Santos won against Chelsea Chandler by way of unanimous decision at UFC on ESPN: Tybura vs. Spivac 2.
Women's Mixed Martial Arts is Always Evolving
We've explored the diverse and dynamic world of women's mixed martial arts. From the dominant champions holding their crowns with authority to the rising stars who continue to make waves, each fighter has contributed to the evolving narrative of excellence in the Octagon.
The rankings reflect not only the current standings but also the grit, determination, and skill that define these remarkable athletes. Whether it's the technical brilliance of seasoned contenders, the explosiveness of emerging talents, or the strategic prowess displayed by each fighter, the women's divisions in the UFC are a testament to the growth and depth of women's MMA.
As fans, we're privileged to witness the evolution of these athletes, witnessing their journeys as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of professional fighting. Each name in the Top 15 represents a story—a narrative of perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.
In the ever-evolving hierarchy of mixed martial arts, the Top 15 Women's UFC Rankings serve as a snapshot of the current talent pool. Yet, it's essential to recognize that these rankings are fluid, subject to change as new contenders emerge and existing champions face new challenges.
The world of women's MMA continues to captivate audiences worldwide, promising even more excitement and memorable moments in the future.
