As 2025 draws to a close, the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) reflects on a year filled with thrilling fights, unexpected twists, and unforgettable moments. From title changes to dramatic comebacks, this year has been nothing short of monumental. Here’s a look back at some of the most significant highlights and standout performances that defined the sport in 2025.
Event of the Year
**UFC 317: Topuria vs. Oliveira**
UFC 317 stands out as the pinnacle event of the year, showcasing a perfect blend of high-stakes drama and electrifying performances. The card featured a new champion crowned, a title defense, and the Fight of the Year, making it an unforgettable night for fans and fighters alike.
Ilia Topuria solidified his status as a superstar with a stunning first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira, capturing the UFC lightweight title. This victory followed his impressive knockouts of legendary featherweights Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, establishing Topuria as one of the most marketable fighters in the UFC.
The co-main event saw Alexandre Pantoja display his grappling prowess, submitting Kai Kara-France in the third round, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest flyweights in history. Additionally, Joshua Van’s intense battle against Brandon Royval, which saw over 400 significant strikes exchanged, added to the event’s excitement. With thrilling finishes and high-level competition, UFC 317 truly delivered everything fans could hope for.
Comeback of the Year
**Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree (UFC 320)**
The matchup between Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree was initially underwhelming, with Prochazka struggling through the first two rounds. However, the final round transformed the fight into a legendary comeback. Prochazka, known for his unpredictable style, unleashed a flurry of strikes that overwhelmed Rountree, culminating in a stunning knockout.
This fight exemplified Prochazka’s resilience and ability to turn the tide at any moment, reminding fans why he is one of the most exciting fighters in the sport. The dramatic shift in momentum and the explosive finish made this comeback one for the ages.
Round of the Year
**Iwo Baraniewski vs. Ibo Aslan (UFC 323)**
In a fight that lasted less than 90 seconds, Iwo Baraniewski and Ibo Aslan delivered a round filled with pure chaos and excitement. From the opening bell, both fighters exchanged heavy blows, resulting in three knockdowns and a staggering 52 significant strikes.
The frenetic pace and relentless aggression showcased the heart and skill of both competitors, culminating in Baraniewski’s knockout victory. This round epitomized the essence of MMA, capturing the thrill and unpredictability that fans crave.
Rookie of the Year
**Kevin Vallejos**
Kevin Vallejos emerged as a standout rookie in 2025, making waves in the UFC after a successful stint on Contender Series. After a close loss in his first attempt, Vallejos returned to secure a contract and quickly made his mark with a first-round knockout of Seung Woo Choi.
His impressive performances continued with a unanimous decision victory over Danny Silva, leading to a high-profile matchup against Giga Chikadze. Vallejos seized the opportunity, knocking out Chikadze with a spectacular spinning backfist, solidifying his place among the featherweight rankings. At just 24 years old, Vallejos’ future in the sport looks incredibly promising.
Fantasy League MVP
**Waldo Cortes-Acosta**
Waldo Cortes-Acosta, affectionately known as “Salsa Boy,” emerged as the Fantasy League MVP, delivering an impressive 500 points for his team in the latter half of 2025. His victories over ranked opponents, coupled with performance bonuses, made him a key player in the fantasy landscape.
Despite facing challenges, including a loss during the season, Cortes-Acosta’s ability to step in on short notice and secure a decisive win kept his team competitive. His contributions were vital, showcasing the unpredictable nature of MMA and the impact of individual fighters on fantasy outcomes.
Promo of the Year
**Kyoji Horiguchi**
Kyoji Horiguchi’s return to the UFC was marked by an impressive performance against Tagir Ulanbekov, but it was his post-fight promo that stole the show. In a bold move, Horiguchi expressed his desire for a title shot against friend and teammate Alexandre Pantoja, blurring the lines between camaraderie and competition.
His candid remarks about wanting to fight Pantoja, despite their friendship, resonated with fans and added an intriguing layer to the narrative. Horiguchi’s ability to mix humor with seriousness made this promo one of the standout moments of the year.
Bozo of the Year
**Isaac Dulgarian**
In a year filled with controversies, Isaac Dulgarian stood out as the Bozo of the Year. His performance at UFC Vegas 110 raised eyebrows, particularly amid allegations of fight-fixing. The lackluster display against Yadier del Valle, combined with suspicious betting patterns, led to scrutiny and an investigation by the Nevada Athletic Commission.
While Dulgarian has not been proven guilty, the cloud of suspicion surrounding him has cast a long shadow over his career. This incident highlights the ongoing issues of integrity and accountability within the sport, making Dulgarian a controversial figure in 2025.
Walkout of the Year
**Dustin Poirier**
Dustin Poirier’s emotional walkout at UFC 318 was a moment that resonated deeply with fans. Accompanied by Lil Wayne, Poirier stepped into the octagon for the last time in front of a hometown crowd in New Orleans, creating an atmosphere charged with nostalgia and anticipation.
The UFC’s promotional efforts leading up to this moment heightened the emotional stakes, allowing fans to fully appreciate the significance of Poirier’s farewell. This walkout encapsulated the spirit of MMA, celebrating a fighter’s journey and legacy.
Performance of the Year
**Petr Yan**
Petr Yan delivered one of the most remarkable performances in UFC history during his rematch against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 323. Few expected Yan to reclaim the bantamweight title, especially after their first encounter, but he dominated the fight, showcasing his striking and tactical prowess.
Yan’s ability to implement his game plan effectively and repeatedly hurt Dvalishvili demonstrated his skill and determination. This performance not only solidified his status as a two-time champion but also set the stage for an anticipated trilogy fight, leaving fans eager for more.
