With Ilia Topuria moving to a different weight class, the top spot in the featherweight rankings became available again, and a familiar fighter has taken it.
At UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski, the former champion, delivered a classic performance over five rounds against Diego Lopes, securing his second reign as champion. As a result, Volkanovski is once again ranked number one in the MMA global rankings, while Topuria is no longer listed as he is expected to compete at 155 pounds.
Volkanovski`s return to the top spot will be familiar to MMA fans. He held the number one position for over four years before Topuria defeated him. Now, he has many potential challengers waiting, including the undefeated Movsar Evloev and other contenders who won important fights in April.
Jean Silva also made a significant impact at UFC 314, achieving his fifth UFC victory with an impressive win over Bryce Mitchell. Silva dominated Mitchell with his striking and finished the fight with a ninja choke in the second round. Many believe Silva was the most talked-about fighter after the event in Miami.
Lerone Murphy also quietly climbed into the top 10 rankings by defeating Josh Emmett in the main event of UFC Vegas 105. Murphy remains undefeated in his professional career and has won eight consecutive UFC fights after a draw in his debut. If opportunities arise, Murphy could be in line for a championship fight soon.
Regardless of who is next, Volkanovski is back in control of the featherweight division, a position that seemed uncertain after his loss to Topuria. His return to the top is a positive story of this year, and he is likely motivated to prove his doubters wrong again.
Here are the updated 145-pound rankings.
Recent results for ranked fighters: Alexander Volkanovski (No. 2) defeated Diego Lopes (No. 5), Yair Rodriguez (No. 8) defeated Patricio Pitbull (No. 9), Lerone Murphy (No. 13) defeated Josh Emmett (No. 10)
Upcoming bouts featuring ranked fighters: Giga Chikadze (No. 14) vs. David Onama (UFC Kansas City, April 26)
Fighters also receiving votes: Dan Ige (3), Kleber Koike (2), Calvin Kattar (1)
