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UFC Rankings Shakeup: Ian Machado Garry Rises to No. 2

Source: UFC rankings go back to the ‘Future’ as Ian Machado Garry soars past Shavkat Rakhmonov to land at No. 2 (2025-11-25)

Ian Machado Garry's recent victory over Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar has propelled him to the No. 2 spot in the welterweight rankings, marking a significant milestone in his career. The 28-year-old fighter, known as the "Future," has now climbed past Shavkat Rakhmonov, despite losing to him last December, showcasing his rapid ascent in the UFC hierarchy. Garry's impressive win streak includes victories over top contenders like Carlos Prates, and his rise reflects his growing prominence in the sport. This ranking update underscores the dynamic nature of UFC standings, which are determined by a panel of media members voting based on fighters' active status and recent performances. Notably, Arman Tsarukyan remains at No. 1 in lightweight, unaffected by his recent win, while the flyweight division experienced a shakeup with Kyoji Horiguchi's return, impacting the Top 10 rankings. Recent developments in UFC rankings highlight the sport's evolving landscape, driven by strategic matchmaking, fighter performances, and the influence of AI in ranking algorithms. As of late 2025, UFC rankings are increasingly influenced by data analytics, fan engagement metrics, and real-time performance tracking, making them more dynamic and reflective of current fighter form. The rise of fighters like Garry exemplifies how emerging talents can rapidly ascend through the ranks with high-profile wins, reshaping title contention and division hierarchies. Additionally, the UFC's global expansion continues to elevate fighters from diverse regions, contributing to a more competitive and internationalized ranking system. The integration of advanced AI tools for ranking calculations is expected to further enhance transparency and accuracy, providing fans and fighters with clearer insights into the sport's competitive landscape. As UFC continues to grow, rankings will remain a critical indicator of fighter legitimacy, title shot prospects, and the overall health of the sport, making them a key focus for fans, analysts, and fighters alike.

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