Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fans are in for a treat in 2025, as the UFC schedule is loaded with high-stakes matchups, return bouts, and fresh challengers. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the sport, here’s a preview of the fights to keep an eye on and the fighters who could define this year’s narrative.
🗓️ Key Events to Watch
Here’s a snapshot of major upcoming events and their headline fights in 2025:
| Event | Headline Bout(s) | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| UFC 321: Aspinall vs. Gane (Oct 25, Abu Dhabi) | Tom Aspinall (champ) vs. Ciryl Gane | Aspinall’s first undisputed title defense. Wikipedia+1 |
| UFC Fight Night: de Ridder vs. Allen (Oct 18, Vancouver) | Reinier de Ridder vs. Brendan Allen | A middleweight showdown with potential title implications. CBS Sports+1 |
| UFC 322 (Nov 15, Madison Square Garden) | Jack Della Maddalena (WW champ) vs. Islam Makhachev | Makhachev moving up weight class for a title fight. Wikipedia+1 |
| UFC 323 (Dec 6, Las Vegas) | Merab Dvalishvili vs. Petr Yan (rematch) + Alexandre Pantoja vs. Joshua Van | Two title fights; Dvalishvili can make history with 4 title defenses in a year. TalkSport+4MMA Fighting+4TalkSport+4 |
These are just a few highlights; the full 2025 UFC event calendar is available on ESPN. ESPN.com+1
🔥 Fighters to Watch in 2025
Here’s a lineup of fighters who are primed to make waves this year:
Tom Aspinall
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The current heavyweight champion is defending his title for the first time as an undisputed champion. His matchup with Gane will be a real test of resilience and skill. Wikipedia+1
Ciryl Gane
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A seasoned veteran and former interim champ, Gane is a dangerous challenger with an all-around skill set.
Reinier de Ridder
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His fight against Brendan Allen could be a direct path toward a title shot. A dominant performance could vault him into middleweight title contention. CBS Sports+1
Brendan Allen
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A tough contender with good momentum—if he wins against de Ridder, he will demand serious respect in the division.
Jack Della Maddalena
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He holds the welterweight belt and is facing a big challenge from Islam Makhachev. His ability to defend against such a decorated opponent will be closely watched. Wikipedia
Islam Makhachev
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Moving up in weight, this is one of the most intriguing parts of his 2025. If he can seamlessly adapt, he could become a two-division star. Wikipedia
Merab Dvalishvili & Petr Yan
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Their rematch in UFC 323 is loaded with stakes. Dvalishvili has already had an incredible run—defending the bantamweight title multiple times. He’s trying to break records. MMA Fighting+2TalkSport+2
Alexandre Pantoja & Joshua Van
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In the co-headliner of UFC 323, Pantoja defends his flyweight title against rising talent Joshua Van. It’s a big moment for Van and a crucial defense for Pantoja. MMA Fighting+1
Ilia Topuria (watching closely)
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While his return is anticipated in early 2026, many fans (including in online forums) want matchups like Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev. TalkSport+1
⚔️ Storylines to Follow
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Weight Class Moves: Makhachev’s shift to welterweight could shake up rankings.
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Title Defense Records: Dvalishvili has the chance to set a new record for title defenses in a calendar year. TalkSport+1
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Veteran vs. Upcomer: As Pantoja defends vs Van, and Della Maddalena defends vs Makhachev, the clash of experience and youth will define the fights.
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Broadcast & Platform Shifts: 2025 is pivotal as UFC transitions toward new media rights and stream platforms. CBS Sports+2Wikipedia+2
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