As 2025 draws to a close, the UFC can look back on one of the most eventful years in its 32-year history. From historic championship performances to landmark business deals, the sport of mixed martial arts reached new heights.

The year’s dominant narrative was undoubtedly Islam Makhachev’s pursuit of greatness. After setting every meaningful record at lightweight, the Dagestani superstar moved up to welterweight and claimed a second title with a dominant performance over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322.

At bantamweight, Merab Dvalishvili’s incredible run of four title fights in one calendar year will be remembered regardless of how his reign ended. His activity and willingness to face all comers set a new standard for champion behavior.

The flyweight division saw a changing of the guard as Joshua Van’s remarkable rise from unranked to champion captured imaginations worldwide. His combination of youth, skill, and charisma suggests the 125-pound division has found its next long-term star.

Valentina Shevchenko proved that age is just a number with two dominant title defenses at women’s flyweight, further cementing her argument as the greatest female fighter of all time alongside Amanda Nunes.

Alex Pereira reclaimed his light heavyweight throne with an 80-second knockout of Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320, while Ilia Topuria’s knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 established him as the new face of the lightweight division.

Off the canvas, the Paramount+ deal and the announcement of the White House event signaled that MMA’s best days may still be ahead. As the sport enters 2026, it does so with unprecedented momentum and mainstream acceptance.