As we transition from one year to the next, the debate arises about who holds the title of the best MMA fighter worldwide, regardless of promotion or weight class. ESPN’s Brett Okamoto, Jeff Wagenheim, and Ariel Helwani have shared their choices and votes to compile a consensus list.
In the latest rankings, a changing of the guard is evident with two standout athletes. Both the men’s and women’s pound-for-pound rankings have new leaders, with Amanda Nunes and Jon Jones claiming the top spots following their victories on December 29th.
Nunes’ rise to the top was expected after her dominant 51-second win over former No. 1, Cris “Cyborg” Justino, leaving voters with an obvious decision. On the men’s side, Jones’ climb from No. 4 was a more challenging choice due to his victory over Alexander Gustafsson in his return fight following a suspension for a failed drug test. The reigning No. 1 fighter, Daniel Cormier, was ESPN’s Fighter of the Year for 2018.
Okamoto’s vote placed Jones at the top spot. Pound-for-pound rankings are subjective and mainly based on fan perspectives. The primary goal of these rankings is to determine the world’s best fighter.
When it comes to naming the ultimate winner in MMA bouts, Jon Jones stands out. His performance against Alexander Gustafsson in their closely contested fight solidified his position as a standout fighter in the sport.
