Sherdog’s Official Mixed Martial Arts Rankings

Image: John Brannigan/Sherdog.com illustration

Magomed Ankalaev got back into the win column in a big way.

The 31-year-old Dagestani made short work of Johnny Walker in the UFC Fight Night 234 headliner, winning via second-round knockout at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on Saturday night. It was a far more satisfying result than their first meeting at UFC 294, which ended in a no contest due to an illegal knee from Ankalaev. As it stands, the Gorets Fight Team product is unbeaten in his last 13 UFC appearances and ranks among the top light heavyweight contenders in the promotion. He also climbs to No. 5 in Sherdog’s latest divisional poll.

Meanwhile, former UFC champ Glover Teixeira has stayed true to his retirement, which occurred following a loss to Jamahal Hill in a light heavyweight title bout approximately one year ago. With no comeback on the horizon, the beloved Brazilian exits the light heavyweight poll, clearing the way for Azamat Murzakanov to join the bubble at No. 15.

Additionally, Rose Namajunas is far removed from her last strawweight appearance, a lackluster championship loss to Carla Esparza at UFC 274 in May 2022. With her next bout already booked at 125 pounds, “Thug” Rose exits the 115-pound rankings. Luana Pinheiro leaves the rankings with her, as Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Tabatha Ricci join the bubble.

Note: Previous rankings listed in brackets.