MMA Pound-for-Pound Rankings Shuffled After UFC 300: Jon Jones and Cris Cyborg Drop in Standings
ICARO Media Group
In a major shakeup of the pound-for-pound rankings, two all-time MMA greats have seen a significant drop in their positions. Jon Jones and Cris Cyborg, who have long been mainstays atop the rankings, have slipped due to various factors.
Jones, considered one of the greatest fighters in the sport's history, has slipped in the new panel structure rankings. While the exact reasons for his descent are not provided, it is clear that recent performance and other considerations played a role. Jones, who has faced multiple controversies outside the octagon, is no longer in the top five pound-for-pound rankings.
Similarly, Cyborg, Bellator's featherweight queen, has also seen a dip in her ranking. She drops two spots all the way to No. 7. Despite a remarkable track record, with only one loss since her debut in 2005, Cyborg's recent victories over less high-profile opponents have failed to captivate fans' attention. Her lack of compelling competition at featherweight has prevented her from making a stronger case to remain higher up the rankings.
For both Jones and Cyborg, the road to reclaiming their positions at the top will be challenging. Cyborg's chances of ascending the rankings might improve if she secures fights against notable opponents such as Kayla Harrison or a rematch with Amanda Nunes, who handed her the only defeat in the last five years. Jones, on the other hand, will have to revive his career with impressive performances to regain his status in the pound-for-pound rankings.
The rankings update following UFC 300 has also led to other changes outside the top 10, with Carla Esparza's removal due to inactivity. Having taken time off to focus on motherhood, Esparza, a two-time UFC strawweight champion, has understandably prioritized other aspects of her life over her pound-for-pound ranking.
The pound-for-pound rankings remain subjective by nature. Determining the superiority of fighters across weight classes is always a matter of debate and personal opinion. Nevertheless, these rankings bring attention and generate discussion among fans and pundits alike.
As the sport of MMA continues to evolve, fighters must continually prove themselves to remain at the top. With every new event and significant fight, the pound-for-pound rankings are subject to change, and only the most exceptional fighters can maintain their positions amidst growing competition. The rankings will be updated following each UFC pay-per-view, ensuring a dynamic representation of the sport's elite talent.
While the rankings are an important aspect of the sport, it is crucial to remember that there are more significant aspects to life than fighting. As some fighters, like Carla Esparza, prioritize personal matters, their rankings become less of a concern. Ultimately, a balanced perspective is essential in appreciating the dedication and sacrifice that fighters make to compete at the highest level in MMA.