As the calendar flips past the halfway point of 2025, it`s time to take stock of the mixed martial arts landscape. While the sport is never without its drama and talking points – sometimes to the dismay of even its most ardent followers – the first six months have undeniably delivered moments that will live on in highlight reels and fan discussions well into the future. From dominant champions solidifying their reign to spectacular finishes and grueling battles, the year has offered a compelling narrative across both major promotions, even if the UFC tends to capture the lion`s share of the headlines. Let`s break down some of the key contenders for mid-year honors across the major categories, drawing insights from recent expert analyses.
Mid-Year Standout: Who is 2025`s Top Fighter?
Leading the pack in the `Best Fighter` conversation appears to be the relentless bantamweight king, Merab Dvalishvili. `The Machine` has arguably had the most impressive campaign, navigating two high-stakes title defenses within a relatively short period. His year began with a challenging bout against the highly-touted and previously undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov, a fighter many considered the division`s boogeyman. Facing the hype as an underdog, Dvalishvili not only secured the victory over five rounds but also earned `Fight of the Night` honors for his performance. Not content to rest, Dvalishvili returned less than five months later to headline UFC 316 against the reigning champion, Sean O`Malley. Despite O`Malley being seemingly at his sharpest, Dvalishvili imposed his will, culminating in a dominant third-round stoppage via choke. Two title defenses against elite competition in rapid succession in arguably the sport`s toughest division certainly build a robust case for Dvalishvili`s claim as the year`s best so far.
The Knockout Heard Around the World: Topuria`s Defining Moment
While many explosive finishes have graced the octagon and the PFL cage, few carry the historical weight of Ilia Topuria`s knockout of Charles Oliveira. This wasn`t just a highlight reel moment; it was, for many observers, a definitive changing of the guard. With this victory, Topuria not only claimed his second divisional title – a feat only accomplished by a select few in UFC history – but he did so while maintaining a perfect undefeated record at the remarkably young age of 28. The finish itself was a display of timing and power, aesthetically beautiful in its execution, but its significance transcends mere visuals. It marked a moment where Topuria stepped unequivocally into the global spotlight, potentially becoming a defining figure for the sport`s next era. Such moments, where an athlete`s trajectory fundamentally alters, are rare and impactful.
The Art of the Tap Out: Harrison`s Championship Statement
Submissions in MMA range from quick, opportunistic grabs to grinding displays of technical dominance. Kayla Harrison`s kimura finish of Julianna Peña falls firmly into the latter category, a powerful and conclusive statement delivered on a monumental stage. As a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist, Harrison`s transition to MMA came with immense expectations, specifically the stated goal of capturing a UFC title. At UFC 316, she finally achieved this long-sought ambition. Dominating the fight on the ground with her superior grappling, Harrison capitalized in the second round, securing a kimura from a difficult position pressed against the cage. The technique was applied with such force and leverage that Peña was compelled to tap, reportedly resulting in a significant risk of injury to her shoulder. While perhaps not the most `flashy` submission ever witnessed, its context – a highly anticipated title win for a decorated athlete against a former champion – makes it a clear contender for the year`s best so far. It was less about flair, more about emphatic mission accomplishment.
The Thrill of the Battle: Van vs. Royval Delivers
Sometimes, fights just click, exceeding expectations through pure, unadulterated action. The flyweight clash between Joshua Van and Brandon Royval at UFC 317 proved to be one such pairing, a high-paced war that exemplified the spirit of competition. Despite Van stepping in on relatively short notice, his youthful energy perfectly complemented Royval`s signature relentless pressure. The 15-minute battle saw both fighters exchange heavy blows and grapple fiercely, each daring the other to wilt under the onslaught. Van, however, showcased accuracy and resilience, particularly in the later rounds, sealing the decision win with a late knockdown that underscored his performance. The immediate aftermath of the fight solidified its impact, as Van was recognized as having a potential star-making turn, even getting a face-off with champion Alexandre Pantoja just moments after Pantoja`s own successful title defense. This fight encapsulated the excitement and potential that the flyweight division often delivers when two willing combatants meet in the center.
As we move into the second half of 2025, these performances set a high bar. Merab Dvalishvili`s defensive dominance turned offensive power, Ilia Topuria`s historic, seismic KO, Kayla Harrison`s championship-clinching submission, and the back-and-forth intensity of Van vs. Royval represent just a few of the highlights from the first six months. While the next six months are surely to bring more memorable moments and new contenders for year-end awards, the first half of 2025 has certainly provided fans with plenty to celebrate and debate.
Murray Blackwood