UFC Champions Aim to Extend Reigns Through 2026 in MMA Rankings
The UFC landscape is shifting as we approach the end of 2023. As the organization finishes its ESPN era, some champions are looking to extend their reigns through 2026 amidst a backdrop of significant events and matchups.
Recent Title Defenses and Upcoming Fights
Merab Dvalishvili successfully defended his bantamweight title against Cory Sandhagen in a 25-minute masterclass. Alex Pereira reclaimed his light heavyweight title from Magomed Ankalaev, reinstating order at 205 pounds. Upcoming title defenses are set for December 6 at UFC 323.
- Merab Dvalishvili vs. Petr Yan (Bantamweight Title)
- Alexandre Pantoja vs. Joshua Van (Flyweight Title)
Key Champions and Their Future Matches
Several champions are guaranteed title defenses in the near future:
- Khamzat Chimaev: Expected to face Nassourdine Imavov at Middleweight.
- Alexander Volkanovski: Likely to collide with undefeated Lerone Murphy.
- Kayla Harrison: Scheduled to fight returning legend Amanda Nunes.
- Ilia Topuria: Potential contenders include Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, or Arman Tsarukyan.
However, official announcements for these matchups may not arrive until late November or early December.
Pereira’s Future and Weight Class Decisions
Alex Pereira’s future in the light heavyweight division remains uncertain. While Magomed Ankalaev is likely to request a rematch, Pereira may consider moving to heavyweight in 2026. His aspirations may lead him to a potential fight with Jon Jones.
Notable Upcoming Bouts
Two high-stakes matchups are on the horizon:
- Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev
- Valentina Shevchenko vs. Zhang Weili
These fights could shape future title opportunities across multiple weight classes.
MMA Rankings Insights
The rankings dynamic is influenced by the results of upcoming events and the actions of the fighters. Here are some recent results for ranked fighters:
- No. 1 Merab Dvalishvili defeated No. 3 Cory Sandhagen.
- No. 2 Alex Pereira defeated No. 1 Magomed Ankalaev.
- No. 3 Nassourdine Imavov outlasted No. 7 Caio Borralho.
Upcoming fights featuring ranked fighters include:
- No. 1 Merab Dvalishvili vs. No. 5 Petr Yan (UFC 323, Dec. 6)
- No. 1 Alexandre Pantoja vs. No. 2 Joshua Van (UFC 323, Dec. 6)
Looking Ahead to 2026
With fighters like Pereira considering weight changes and champions like Dvalishvili targeting further title defenses, the UFC is poised for an exciting future. The chaos of MMA ensures that anything can happen, encouraging fans to stay engaged as the championship landscape evolves.
