The division that Anderson Silva once ruled with an iron muay thai fist is now in disarray. We have a champion in Dricus Du Plessis, who hasn't been booked to fight since he secured the title in January. Add to that, we have viable contenders who have an argument to walk right into a title fight based on their resume and recent success.
In an attempt to bring clarity to the situation, we will assess the contenders and their positions within the title picture.
Our assessment will categorize them into four groups: "Title Ready," "One Quality Win Away," "Work to Do," and "Extenuating Circumstances." By doing so, we hope to provide a comprehensive overview of the division's current landscape.
As 2023 is coming to a close, there is but two UFC title fights left for fight fans slated for the year. At UFC 296, Leon Edwards will look to defend his welterweight title against Colby Covington and in the co-main event, Alexandre Pantoja welcomes Brandon Royval as a challenge to the flyweight throne. Let's take a look back at the best performances from title tilts this year.
