MMA pound-for-pound rankings (Oct. 2026): Alex Volkanovski, Petr Yan battle for supremacy after UFC 333
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Alexander Volkanovski’s 38‑year‑old TKO of undefeated Movsar Evloev at UFC 333 in Abu Dhabi has pushed the featherweight champion into the No. 2 spot on Uncrowned’s latest pound‑for‑pound list, just behind Islam Makhachev. Volkanovski’s win over a top‑tier opponent at a high‑profile event earned him a leap from No. 3 to the penultimate position, underscoring his continued relevance in the sport despite his age.
Makhachev remains the undisputed No. 1, having defended his welterweight title and avoided a fight before Ramadan. The top two are now locked in a rivalry that could see Volkanovski matched with lightweight champion Justin Gaethje in the future, a prospect that has already sparked speculation among fans and analysts alike.
Petr Yan, the bantamweight champion, holds the No. 3 spot. After a back surgery, Yan appeared healthy enough to face Merab Dvalishvili in a trilogy bout, and his performance kept him firmly in the upper tier. Joshua Van, the flyweight champion, sits at No. 4 after a double‑title defense, while Gaethje himself is listed at No. 5, still enjoying his belt and looking for the next big challenge.
The rankings are compiled by a panel of seven writers who assign weighted points based on placement. Fighters must have competed or booked a fight within the past year to qualify, and the list is not limited to the UFC, encompassing major promotions such as PFL, RIZIN, ONE Championship, and others.
On the women’s side, Valentina Shevchenko holds No. 1, followed by Zhang Weili at No. 2, and Kayla Harrison at No. 3. The panel’s methodology and the inclusion of fighters from across the globe make these pound‑for‑pound rankings a comprehensive snapshot of the sport’s elite.
