Islam Makhachev holds top spot in August 2026 MMA rankings
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 1:55 PM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026
Islam Makhachev remains the pound-for-pound leader after UFC 330, overcoming Ian Machado Garry. Makhachev’s victory solidifies his position, extending his record for consecutive wins in UFC history. Mackenzie Dern rises in the women's rankings following her successful title defense against Gillian Robertson. Dakota Ditcheva also achieved a notable win over Denise Kielholtz at PFL New York, prompting questions about her ranking status. The updated rankings will include fighters from various promotions, not just UFC.
- •Makhachev retains pound-for-pound ranking after UFC 330 victory.
- •Mackenzie Dern moves up in women's rankings post-title defense.
- •Dakota Ditcheva earns a win at PFL New York.
- •Rankings include fighters from multiple MMA promotions.
- 1:55 PMCBS Sports — UFC Pound for Pound Rankings: Islam Makhachev holds on to top spot, Mackenzie Dern debuts
- 6:46 PMYahoo Sports — MMA pound-for-pound rankings (August 2026): Can anyone beat Islam Makhachev?
"The record-breaking Makhachev remains the sport's pound-for-pound king, while Mackenzie Dern’s stock is heading north after a busy weekend at UFC 330.
"Makhachev has plenty of competition to worry about in potential upcoming fights at welterweight
Sources
External links- CBS SportsAug 18, 2026, 1:55 PMUFC Pound for Pound Rankings: Islam Makhachev holds on to top spot, Mackenzie Dern debuts
Makhachev has plenty of competition to worry about in potential upcoming fights at welterweight
- Yahoo SportsAug 17, 2026, 6:46 PMMMA pound-for-pound rankings (August 2026): Can anyone beat Islam Makhachev?
The record-breaking Makhachev remains the sport's pound-for-pound king, while Mackenzie Dern’s stock is heading north after a busy weekend at UFC 330.
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