The UFC has released updated rankings with several notable changes across divisions. Arman Tsarukyan moved up two spots in the pound-for-pound rankings, reportedly due to his victories in wrestling and grappling tournaments. Roman Dolidze overtook Paulo Costa in the middleweight rankings following Costa's move to light heavyweight. Costa debuted at 7th in the light heavyweight division after defeating #6 ranked Azamat Murzakanov. Aaron Pico entered the top 15 at featherweight, while Josh Hawkit debuted at #5 in the heavyweight rankings. These changes reflect recent competitive results and divisional shifts within the UFC roster.
The UFC released updated divisional and pound-for-pound rankings on April 14, 2026, featuring several notable shifts including a divisional move for Paulo Costa and new entrants across multiple weight classes.
Arman Tsarukyan climbed two spots in the pound-for-pound rankings, with the UFC citing his performances in wrestling and grappling tournaments as the basis for the move.
At middleweight, Roman Dolidze passed Paulo Costa to claim the number 12 position in the division. The 37-year-old Georgian, who trains out of Xtreme Couture and carries a 15-5 record, is a well-rounded threat at 185 pounds — averaging 1.16 takedowns per 15 minutes and 0.7 submission attempts per 15 minutes, complementing a six-foot-two frame and a 76-inch reach.
Costa's departure from the middleweight rankings triggered the shuffle. The Brazilian known as "The Eraser" moved up to light heavyweight and debuted at seventh in that division following a win over previously ranked Azamat Murzakanov. Costa, now 35 and holding a 16-4 record, is one of the sport's most active strikers, landing 6.26 significant strikes per minute at a 58 percent accuracy rate over his career — numbers he will now bring to a heavier division.
Aaron Pico, the 29-year-old American from Jackson-Wink MMA, entered the featherweight top 15 for the first time. Pico carries a 14-5 record and an eye-catching 8.96 takedowns per 15 minutes, a figure that underscores his wrestling-heavy approach despite standing just five-foot-eight with a 70-inch reach.
Josh Hawkit also debuted in the rankings, entering at number five in the heavyweight division.
Why it matters
- Costa's move to light heavyweight reshapes both the 185 and 205-pound title pictures simultaneously
- Dolidze's rise at middleweight reflects Costa's absence rather than a recent fight result, leaving his ranking open to scrutiny
- Pico's featherweight top-15 entry marks a significant milestone for one of the division's most wrestling-dominant athletes
