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The UFC Men’s Flyweight division at 125 pounds has evolved into one of the most technically demanding weight classes in all of MMA. With champions at the elite level combining elite wrestling, advanced striking, and world-class submission grappling, the flyweight division rewards complete fighters more than almost any other. Here are the current UFC Men’s Flyweight Rankings as of April 2026.

UFC Men’s Flyweight Champion

Alexandre Pantoja — The Brazilian champion from Team Nogueira has proven himself as one of the most complete fighters in the flyweight division. Pantoja combines elite BJJ with crisp boxing and a relentless pace that breaks opponents over the course of a fight. He won the title by defeating Brandon Moreno in a rematch at UFC 290 and has defended it successfully against top competition. His submission game is elite at any weight class, and his cardio is virtually unmatched at 125 pounds.

Top 5 Flyweight Contenders

#1 Brandon Moreno — The Assassin Baby from Tijuana, Mexico is arguably the most beloved fighter in the flyweight division and one of the most popular fighters on the UFC roster. A three-time UFC flyweight champion, Moreno’s submission game and non-stop pace have made him a perpetual title threat. His rivalry with Pantoja is one of the best ongoing storylines in the UFC.

#2 Amir Albazi — The Prince has rapidly risen through the flyweight ranks with an elite grappling game and improving striking. Albazi’s ability to take opponents down and control from top position makes him a nightmare matchup for most flyweights. He has looked dominant in recent performances and is a serious title contender.

#3 Manel Kape — The Angolan-born, Lisbon-based fighter brings elite striking and dangerous submission threats to every fight. Kape’s knockout power is rare for 125 pounds — he has put away opponents with punches that would not look out of place at featherweight. His well-roundedness makes him a threat to anyone in the division.

#4 Kai Kara-France — The New Zealand-born, Thai-trained striker has tremendous knockout power for the division. Kara-France’s Muay Thai background has given him one of the best stand-up games at flyweight, with crisp combinations and dangerous kick attacks. After some setbacks he has remained in the top contender picture.

#5 Tatsuro Taira — The undefeated Japanese prospect has been making waves with his elite wrestling and submission game. Taira’s grappling credentials are among the best in the division, and he has looked dominant against quality opposition. An unbeaten professional record keeps him firmly in the title conversation.

Rankings #6-15

#6 David Dvorak — The Czech fighter has quietly built one of the best records in the flyweight division with sharp BJJ and smart fight management.

#7 Tim Elliott — A longtime divisional veteran with a creative, unorthodox style that makes him dangerous against anyone on a given night.

#8 Matt Schnell — Dangerous finisher who can end fights with either strikes or submissions at any moment.

#9 Jeff Molina — Young contender with a well-rounded skillset who has shown rapid improvement at the UFC level.

#10 Tagir Ulanbekov — Elite wrestler from Dagestan with the grappling pedigree typical of fighters from that region, consistently competitive against ranked opponents.

Division Overview

The flyweight division has transformed significantly since its inception. Once dismissed as too small to generate mainstream interest, the division has produced some of the most technically spectacular fights in UFC history. The Pantoja-Moreno series is exhibit A — four fights of high-level grappling exchanges, tight scrambles, and genuine championship-level competition from first bell to last.

What makes flyweight compelling from a technical standpoint is the combination of athleticism and skill required. At 125 pounds, pure strength advantages are minimal, so technique, timing, and cardio determine outcomes more consistently than at heavier weights. Fighters who can maintain elite output for 25 minutes while executing complex grappling and striking sequences are the ones who succeed at the top of this division.

Rankings updated April 2026. Championship fights and interim title bouts may affect standings throughout the year.