In a recent update to the MMA pound-for-pound rankings, a mix of familiar names and rising contenders have secured their positions in the top five. Notable fighters such as Makhachev, Edwards, Jones, Topuria, and Pereira have claimed spots, but there's speculation that these veterans may soon yield their ranks to emerging talents like Arman Tsarukyan, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Tom Aspinall.

The latest rankings were influenced by Ilia Topuria's victory over Alexander Volkanovski, resulting in a shift in the hierarchy of the fighters. The eight-person voting panel, composed of MMA Fighting staffers, including Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee, ensures that the rankings are regularly updated after each UFC pay-per-view event.

2024 is anticipated to bring about potential upheavals in the pound-for-pound standings, as new challengers seek to make their mark on the rankings. Fighters are subject to removal from the rankings if they do not compete within 18 months of their last bout. Additionally, retirements may prompt immediate removal or maintenance of a position based on the panel's decision.

The stage is set for an exciting year in the MMA world, with the outcome of the Yair Rodrigues vs. Brian Ortega 2 contest likely to have repercussions on the evolving landscape of the sport.