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The UFC heavyweight division is the most prestigious weight class in MMA — the one where the knockout power is highest and the title carries the most symbolic weight. Today it is led by Jon Jones, who moved up from light heavyweight to claim the UFC’s biggest crown. Below him, a deep field of massive, powerful fighters battles for contendership.

UFC Heavyweight Champion: Jon Jones

Jon “Bones” Jones holds the UFC heavyweight championship after defeating Stipe Miocic in November 2023. Jones previously dominated the light heavyweight division for over a decade, holding the UFC’s pound-for-pound #1 ranking for most of that time. His move to heavyweight was one of the most anticipated transitions in UFC history, and his win over Miocic cemented his status as arguably the greatest UFC fighter ever. His elite wrestling, unorthodox striking, and fight IQ are as effective at heavyweight as they were at 205 pounds.

Top 5 UFC Heavyweights

#1 Contender: Tom Aspinall (Interim Champion)

Tom Aspinall holds the interim UFC heavyweight championship, making the heavyweight title picture uniquely complicated. The British heavyweight is undefeated in his UFC heavyweight career, finishing every opponent he has faced. His combination of elite BJJ, powerful striking, and movement for a man his size (6’5″, 265 lbs) makes him a genuinely frightening opponent. A fight with Jones is one of MMA’s most anticipated potential matchups. Many observers consider Aspinall the most dangerous heavyweight in the world right now.

#2: Ciryl Gane

The French heavyweight is one of the most technically gifted big men in MMA history. His movement, footwork, and striking accuracy at 240 pounds are remarkable. He challenged for the title, losing to Jones, but has remained a fixture in the top 3 heavyweights. His ability to jab and move like a cruiserweight while possessing genuine heavyweight power makes him a difficult matchup for anyone.

#3: Stipe Miocic

Stipe Miocic is the most accomplished UFC heavyweight champion in history, holding the title for multiple reigns and defeating Daniel Cormier, Francis Ngannou, and other elite heavyweights. Though he lost to Jones in 2023, his record and achievements place him in the upper tier of the division. His combination of boxing, wrestling, and extraordinary durability defined the heavyweight division for years.

#4: Sergei Pavlovich

The Russian heavyweight earned a rapid rise through the UFC heavyweight rankings with a series of devastating first-round knockouts. His right hand is one of the most feared weapons in the division. He suffered his first UFC loss to Jones, but remains a legitimate contender and one of the most dangerous strikers at the weight class.

#5: Alexander Volkov

The Russian heavyweight is one of the more underrated fighters in the division, with a solid record against quality competition and the combination of striking and grappling that makes him competitive against any top-10 opponent. His height and reach create problems for fighters who prefer inside work.

Other Notable Heavyweights

Tai Tuivasa: The Australian “Bam Bam” is one of the division’s most popular fighters, known for his beer-can shotgunning celebrations and heavy-handed knockout power. He has wins over multiple ranked fighters.

Curtis Blaydes: An elite wrestler with solid striking who has been in the top 5 heavyweights for years. His wrestling is among the best in the division and he has wins over multiple former champions.

Derrick Lewis: “The Black Beast” holds the all-time UFC knockout record. His right hand is one of the most dangerous weapons in MMA, and his ability to score fight-ending knockouts from any position has made him a beloved fan favorite.

The Jones-Aspinall Question

The most pressing question hanging over the UFC heavyweight division is when — or whether — Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall will fight to unify the heavyweight title. Both men hold championship belts, and the fight has significant commercial potential. Jones has dealt with injury issues that have kept him relatively inactive since winning the title. When this fight happens, it will be one of the most significant heavyweight bouts in recent UFC history.