Two Spaniards in the Prestigious UFC Rankings
There are currently two Spanish fighters in the top-15 of each division in the UFC rankings. Ilia Topuria, the featherweight and pound-for-pound champion, has been joined by Joel Álvarez, who recently defeated Drakkar Klose with a KO in UFC Tampa. This victory has earned Álvarez a position in the top-15, a place where the best fighters in the world begin to dream of becoming champions.
Álvarez’s Return to the Top-15
Álvarez’s victory over Klose has earned him a position in the top-15 of the lightweight division, a place he previously held in 2021. After a great run following his debut loss to Ismagulov, Álvarez beat the Brazilian Moisés and became part of the lightweight elite. However, after falling to Arman Tsarukyan, the Asturian experienced a period of inactivity that left him out of the top-15. With his new streak of three completions, the company’s panel of experts has placed him in 15th place.
Implications of Álvarez’s Return
Álvarez’s return to the top-15 guarantees him better fights, purses, and positions on the cards. However, it is still unclear whether he will continue to fight in the lightweight division or move up to welterweight. Fighting at 170 pounds would allow Álvarez to avoid the health risks associated with cutting weight to 155 pounds, a factor that has previously caused him problems. In welterweight, Álvarez could adapt to a role that he wants to pursue in his professional career: that of a UFC worker.
Conclusion
Joel Álvarez’s return to the top-15 of the lightweight division is a significant achievement. With his new streak of three completions, he has guaranteed himself better fights, purses, and positions on the cards. However, it is still unclear whether he will continue to fight in the lightweight division or move up to welterweight. Regardless, Álvarez’s return to the top-15 is a testament to his skill and dedication as a fighter.