The UFC middleweight division is one of the most exciting and competitive weight classes in mixed martial arts. As we look ahead to 2024, the race for the coveted UFC middleweight title has never been more intense. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the top 15 UFC middleweight rankings and analyze the top contenders, rising stars, and potential future champions.
1: Israel Adesanya – The Reigning Middleweight Champion
At the top of the UFC middleweight rankings sits the reigning and defending champion, Israel “The Last Stylebender” Adesanya. The Nigerian-New Zealander has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant strikers in MMA history, with a professional record of 23-1-0.
Adesanya’s rise to the top of the middleweight division has been nothing short of remarkable. After making his UFC debut in 2018, he quickly dispatched a series of top contenders, including Robert Whittaker, Yoel Romero, and Paulo Costa, to capture the UFC middleweight title in 2019. Since then, Adesanya has successfully defended his title five times, cementing his status as one of the greatest UFC champions of his era.
Adesanya’s fighting style is a unique blend of precision striking, fluid movement, and unorthodox techniques. His ability to read his opponents and counter their advances is truly exceptional, making him a nightmare matchup for most middleweights. With his ever-expanding skill set and championship pedigree, it’s clear that Adesanya will be a dominant force in the middleweight division for the foreseeable future.
2: Marvin Vettori – The Italian Dream Seeks Redemption
Standing at 2 in the UFC middleweight rankings is the hard-nosed Italian, Marvin “The Italian Dream” Vettori. Vettori and Adesanya have developed a fierce rivalry over the past few years, with the two fighters meeting in the octagon on two previous occasions.
After falling to Adesanya in their first two encounters, Vettori has spent the last year and a half rebuilding his momentum and climbing back into title contention. His recent wins over the likes of Paulo Costa and Robert Whittaker have been particularly impressive, showcasing his relentless pressure, powerful grappling, and improved striking.
Vettori’s path to redemption has been fueled by his sheer determination and unwavering belief in himself. He has worked tirelessly to shore up the weaknesses in his game, and now presents a much more well-rounded threat to Adesanya’s reign. With his unbreakable will and constantly evolving skill set, Vettori is poised to make another run at the UFC middleweight title in 2024.
3: Robert Whittaker – The Former Champion Looks to Regain the Belt
Robert “The Reaper” Whittaker, the former UFC middleweight champion, occupies the 3 spot in the rankings. Whittaker’s reign at the top of the division was cut short in 2019 when he lost the title to Israel Adesanya, but the resilient Australian has fought his way back into contention.
Whittaker’s well-rounded skill set and tactical fighting approach have always been the cornerstones of his success. He possesses a diverse array of striking techniques, coupled with a strong wrestling base and excellent cardio. In his recent fights, Whittaker has showcased his ability to adapt and make adjustments mid-fight, a trait that has served him well against the division’s elite.
As Whittaker looks to regain the UFC middleweight title, he will need to overcome the significant challenges presented by Adesanya’s unorthodox style. However, with his vast experience, technical prowess, and sheer determination, few would be surprised to see Whittaker reclaim the throne in the near future.
4: Jared Cannonier – The Destructive Power Puncher
Jared “The Killa Gorilla” Cannonier has quickly risen through the UFC middleweight ranks to claim the 4 spot. Known for his devastating power and raw physicality, Cannonier has become a feared striker in the division.
After moving down from light heavyweight, Cannonier has found tremendous success at middleweight, notching impressive victories over the likes of Anderson Silva, Jack Hermansson, and Kelvin Gastelum. His ability to deliver fight-ending blows with both hands has made him a constant threat to any opponent who steps into the octagon with him.
While Cannonier’s explosive striking is his primary weapon, he has also shown improvements in his grappling and overall well-rounded game. As he continues to refine his skills and gain experience at the highest level, the American powerhouse could very well find himself in title contention in the near future.
5: Sean Strickland – The Controversial Contender
Rounding out the top 5 in the UFC middleweight rankings is the outspoken and enigmatic Sean Strickland. The American fighter has carved out a unique path in the division, combining an unorthodox fighting style with a brash and often controversial personality.
Strickland’s rise to prominence has been fueled by his relentless pressure, unorthodox striking, and unwavering confidence. He has managed to string together an impressive winning streak, including victories over former champion Luke Rockhold and perennial contender Uriah Hall.
However, Strickland’s path to the top has not been without its challenges. His outspoken nature and penchant for stirring up controversy have at times overshadowed his impressive in-ring performances. Nevertheless, the American middleweight remains a formidable and unpredictable threat in the division, with the potential to shake up the rankings in the coming year.
6: Dricus Du Plessis (South Africa)Â
Rising up the UFC middleweight rankings to claim the #6 spot is the South African powerhouse, Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis. The 28-year-old fighter has quickly made a name for himself in the division with his relentless fighting style and impressive winning streak.
Du Plessis, who hails from Pretoria, South Africa, made his UFC debut in 2021 and has since compiled a perfect 6-0 record in the organization. His most notable victories have come against established contenders like Andre Muniz and Darren Till, showcasing his well-rounded skill set and ability to adapt to different styles of opponents.
What sets Du Plessis apart is his sheer physicality and unbridled aggression. The South African fighter possesses a muscular frame and heavy hands that he utilizes to overwhelm his opponents with a constant barrage of strikes. However, he has also demonstrated a solid grappling base and an ever-improving ground game, making him a truly threatening and multi-dimensional threat in the middleweight division.
As Du Plessis continues to climb the ranks, his sights are firmly set on challenging the reigning champion, Israel Adesanya. With his combination of raw power, technical prowess, and unwavering determination, the South African prospect is quickly establishing himself as one of the most dangerous up-and-coming middleweights in the UFC.
With his relentless fighting style and rapidly evolving skill set, Dricus Du Plessis is undoubtedly a name to watch in the UFC middleweight division in 2024 and beyond.
7: Brendan Allen (USA)Â
Occupying the #7 spot in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 is the well-rounded American fighter, Brendan “All In” Allen. The 27-year-old has steadily climbed the ranks of the division, showcasing his diverse skill set and determination to become a title contender.
Allen’s journey in the UFC has been marked by a series of impressive performances that have solidified his status as a rising star in the middleweight division. With a professional record of 19-5-0, the American has proven himself capable of competing with the best the division has to offer.
One of Allen’s greatest strengths is his ability to adapt to the situation at hand. Whether it’s engaging in a stand-up battle or utilizing his strong grappling skills, he has demonstrated the versatility to overcome a variety of opponents. His well-rounded game, combined with a relentless work ethic, has made him a tough matchup for any middleweight on the roster.
As Allen continues to refine his skills and gain more experience at the highest level, his path to the UFC middleweight title becomes increasingly clear. With his combination of technical proficiency, physical attributes, and mental toughness, the American fighter is poised to break through the crowded contender landscape and make a serious push for the championship in the near future.
With his sights set on the top of the division, Brendan Allen is a fighter to keep a close eye on in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 and beyond.
8: Paulo Costa (Brazil)Â
At the #8 spot in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 is the powerful Brazilian fighter, Paulo “Borrachinha” Costa. The 31-year-old has long been considered one of the most physically imposing and dangerous strikers in the middleweight division.
Costa’s rise to prominence in the UFC has been defined by his devastating punching power and relentless pursuit of his opponents. With a professional record of 13-2-0, the Brazilian has established himself as a true powerhouse in the middleweight ranks, known for his ability to overwhelm his foes with a barrage of heavy-handed strikes.
However, Costa’s journey has not been without its challenges. After suffering a defeat to reigning champion Israel Adesanya in 2020, the Brazilian fighter has been determined to regain his place among the elite middleweights. In the years since, he has worked tirelessly to improve his well-rounded game, incorporating more diverse striking techniques and shoring up any gaps in his defensive capabilities.
As Costa continues to evolve and adapt his fighting style, his potential to reclaim a top spot in the division remains a tantalizing prospect. His raw physicality, combined with his growing technical prowess, make him a formidable opponent for any middleweight in the UFC.
With his sights firmly set on redemption and a potential title shot, Paulo Costa is poised to make a significant impact on the UFC middleweight rankings in 2024. His sheer power and determination make him a constant threat to the division’s best, and a fighter that no one can afford to overlook.
9: Nassourdine Imavov (France)Â
Climbing into the #9 spot in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 is the French fighter, Nassourdine “The Sniper” Imavov. The 27-year-old has quickly made a name for himself in the division with his impressive performances and tactical fighting style.
Imavov made his UFC debut in 2020 and has since compiled an impressive record of 11-3-0. His most notable victories have come against established contenders like Edmen Shahbazyan and Ian Heinisch, showcasing his well-rounded skill set and ability to adapt to a variety of opponents.
What sets Imavov apart is his calculated and methodical approach to mixed martial arts. The French fighter possesses a diverse striking arsenal, blending together a variety of techniques to keep his opponents off balance. However, he has also demonstrated a strong grappling base and an impressive ground game, making him a true threat in all areas of the fight.
One of Imavov’s key attributes is his patience and composure under pressure. Despite facing experienced and dangerous opponents, the Frenchman has consistently displayed the ability to maintain his composure and execute his gameplan with precision. This tactical approach has allowed him to secure several majority decision victories, showcasing his well-rounded skill set and fight IQ.
As Imavov continues to climb the middleweight ranks, his sights are set on eventually challenging the division’s elite. With his combination of technical proficiency, physical attributes, and mental toughness, the French fighter is undoubtedly a rising star to keep a close eye on in the UFC middleweight division.
10: Roman Dolidze (Georgia)Â
Rounding out the top 10 in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 is the Georgian fighter, Roman Dolidze. The 34-year-old has made a name for himself in the division with his diverse skill set and impressive performances inside the octagon.
Dolidze, who hails from the country of Georgia, has compiled an impressive professional record of 11-2-0 in his MMA career. Since making his UFC debut in 2020, the Georgian fighter has showcased his ability to compete at the highest level, notching victories over experienced opponents such as John Phillips and Laureano Staropoli.
One of the standout aspects of Dolidze’s fighting style is his well-rounded and adaptable approach. The Georgian fighter possesses a solid foundation in both striking and grappling, allowing him to effectively mix up his techniques and keep his opponents guessing. This versatility, combined with his powerful physicality, has made Dolidze a formidable presence in the middleweight division.
Dolidze’s humble and respectful demeanor outside of the octagon has also endeared him to fans, who appreciate his dedication to the sport and his desire to constantly improve his skills. As he continues to climb the rankings, the Georgian fighter has the potential to become a major player in the UFC middleweight title picture.
With his diverse skill set, impressive work ethic, and growing experience, Roman Dolidze is a fighter to watch in the UFC middleweight division in 2024. His ability to adapt and overcome challenges could very well propel him into title contention in the near future.
11: Kelvin Gastelum (USA)
Kelvin Gastelum, the American middleweight fighter, occupies the #11 spot in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024. Gastelum has long been considered one of the most dangerous and well-rounded competitors in the division, with a professional record of 17-8-0.
Despite facing some setbacks in recent years, Gastelum has shown his resilience and determination to remain a top contender in the middleweight ranks. His diverse skill set, which includes powerful boxing, effective grappling, and solid wrestling, has made him a formidable opponent for any fighter he faces.
One of Gastelum’s key strengths is his ability to adapt his fighting style to the specific strengths and weaknesses of his opponents. He has demonstrated the versatility to strike with the best of them, while also possessing the ground skills to neutralize the grappling-focused fighters in the division.
As Gastelum continues to work on refining his overall game and addressing any lingering weaknesses, he remains a constant threat to the top middleweights in the UFC. With a deep reservoir of experience and a hunger to reclaim his spot among the division’s elite, the American fighter will undoubtedly be a force to be reckoned with in 2024 and beyond.
12: Derek Brunson (USA)
Occupying the #12 spot in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 is the veteran American fighter, Derek Brunson. The 38-year-old has been a mainstay in the division for nearly a decade, consistently proving himself as a formidable and dangerous opponent.
Brunson’s journey in the UFC has been marked by his relentless work ethic and his ability to adapt and evolve his fighting style over the years. With a professional record of 23-8-0, the American fighter has faced and defeated some of the top middleweights in the organization, including the likes of Edmen Shahbazyan, Elias Theodorou, and Lyoto Machida.
One of Brunson’s most notable strengths is his powerful wrestling and grappling skills, which he has used to great effect in neutralizing the striking-focused opponents he has faced. However, the American fighter has also shown improvements in his stand-up game, adding new wrinkles to his arsenal to keep his foes guessing.
Despite his advancing age, Brunson continues to display a level of determination and resilience that has made him a tough out for any middleweight in the UFC. His wealth of experience, combined with his ever-evolving skill set, make him a constant threat to the division’s rising stars and established contenders alike.
As the UFC middleweight landscape continues to shift and evolve, Derek Brunson remains a formidable presence, capable of pulling off upsets and pushing the division’s elite to their limits. While he may not be the youngest fighter in the rankings, his grit and determination ensure that he will remain a factor in the middleweight title picture for the foreseeable future.
13: Jack Hermansson (Sweden)
Slotting in at the #13 spot in the UFC middleweight rankings for 2024 is the Swedish fighter, Jack “The Joker” Hermansson. The 34-year-old has established himself as a consistent threat in the division, with a professional record of 22-7-0.
Hermansson’s rise to prominence in the UFC has been defined by his well-rounded skill set and his ability to adapt to a wide range of opponents. The Swedish fighter possesses a diverse striking arsenal, complemented by a strong grappling game that has allowed him to compete effectively against the division’s elite.
One of Hermansson’s most notable strengths is his work rate and relentless pressure inside the octagon. The Swede is known for his ability to maintain a high pace throughout his fights, often overwhelming his opponents with a constant barrage of strikes and grappling attempts.
Despite facing some setbacks in recent years, Hermansson has demonstrated his resilience and determination to remain a top contender in the middleweight division. His victories over the likes of Kelvin Gastelum, Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza, and Marvin Vettori have cemented his status as a dangerous and well-rounded fighter.
As the UFC middleweight landscape continues to evolve, Jack Hermansson’s experience and adaptability will undoubtedly make him a formidable challenge for any fighter he faces. With his sights set on regaining his position among the division’s elite, the Swedish veteran is a name to watch in the 2024 UFC middleweight rankings.
14: Brad Tavares (USA)
At the #14 spot in the 2024 UFC middleweight rankings is the American fighter, Brad “The Bear” Tavares. The 34-year-old has been a consistent presence in the division for over a decade, showcasing his well-rounded skill set and durability against some of the top middleweights in the sport.
Tavares’ professional record stands at 19-7-0, with notable victories over the likes of Krzysztof Jotko, Misha Cirkunov, and Elias Theodorou. The Hawaiian fighter has built his reputation on his ability to grind out victories through a combination of solid striking, reliable grappling, and excellent cardio.
One of Tavares’ greatest assets is his versatility and adaptability inside the octagon. The American is capable of adjusting his gameplan to match the strengths and weaknesses of his opponents, making him a challenging opponent for any middleweight in the division.
Despite facing some setbacks against the division’s elite, Tavares has consistently proven his ability to compete at the highest level. His experience and well-rounded skill set have made him a tough out for up-and-coming fighters, as well as a tough test for established contenders.
As the UFC middleweight landscape continues to evolve, Brad Tavares remains a steady and reliable presence in the rankings. While he may not be the flashiest or most dominant fighter in the division, his determination, consistency, and ability to overcome adversity make him a dangerous opponent for anyone he faces.
With his sights set on continuing to climb the middleweight ladder, Tavares will undoubtedly be a factor to consider in the 2024 UFC middleweight rankings.
15: Uriah Hall (Jamaica)
Rounding out the top #15 in the 2024 UFC middleweight rankings is the Jamaican fighter, Uriah “Prime Time” Hall. The 38-year-old veteran has long been considered one of the most talented and dangerous strikers in the division, with a professional record of 17-11-0.
Hall’s journey in the UFC has been marked by both impressive victories and frustrating setbacks. Known for his unorthodox striking techniques and explosive knockout power, the Jamaican fighter has the ability to defeat any middleweight on a given night.
However, Hall has also struggled with consistency throughout his career, at times failing to fully capitalize on his immense potential. Despite this, he remains a formidable presence in the division, capable of pulling off stunning victories and pushing the top contenders to their limits.
One of Hall’s greatest strengths is his striking prowess, which includes a diverse array of kicks, punches, and spinning techniques. When he is firing on all cylinders, the Jamaican can be a nightmare for opponents to deal with, as his unpredictable style and fight-ending power make him a constant threat.
As Hall enters the later stages of his career, his experience and resilience will be crucial factors in determining his future success in the UFC middleweight division. While he may not be the young phenom he once was, the Jamaican fighter still possesses the skills and determination to trouble any middleweight he faces.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Uriah Hall remains a respected and dangerous competitor in the UFC middleweight rankings. His potential to pull off stunning upsets and his ability to push the division’s elite will ensure that he remains a factor in the 2024 middleweight landscape.
Conclusion
The UFC middleweight division is undoubtedly one of the most captivating weight classes in mixed martial arts. As we look ahead to 2024, the race for the coveted UFC middleweight title has never been more intense, with a diverse array of skilled and determined contenders vying for the top spot.
From the dominant champion Israel Adesanya to the relentless challengers like Marvin Vettori and Robert Whittaker, the middleweight division is sure to provide fans with countless thrilling matchups and unexpected twists and turns. With rising stars like Jared Cannonier and Sean Strickland adding to the excitement, the future of the UFC middleweight division has never been brighter.
As we eagerly await the unfolding of the 2024 UFC middleweight rankings, one thing is certain: the journey to the top of this division will be filled with high-stakes battles, unexpected upsets, and the crowning of a new champion. Buckle up, because the UFC middleweight division is set to deliver an unforgettable year of mixed martial arts action.
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