MMA divisional grades: Lightweight, flyweight shine in 2025

The lightweight and men's flyweight divisions have carried MMA through the first half of 2025, according to ESPN's midyear divisional report card released this week.

While those two weight classes delivered consistent high-level action and compelling storylines, the majority of divisions across major promotions struggled to generate momentum over the same stretch. ESPN's assessment highlighted a stark contrast between the deepest rosters and the rest of the sport, with several classes marked by inactivity among top contenders.

Why lightweight and flyweight earned top marks

The lightweight bracket benefited from a steady rotation of ranked fighters taking meaningful bouts, keeping title implications fluid even without a championship contest in the period. Men's flyweight, often overlooked in broader UFC discourse, produced multiple finishes inside the top ten and saw emerging contenders force their way into title conversations.

ESPN's review noted that other divisions suffered from champion inactivity, injury withdrawals, or a lack of available contenders willing to face one another. The report did not assign letter grades but framed the six-month window as a tale of two tiers — the classes with depth and those treading water.

Both lightweight and flyweight are expected to host title fights before the calendar turns, giving each division a chance to cap a strong year with championship stakes.

Reported via:

• ESPN MMA — MMA divisional grades: Lightweight, men's flyweigh...