Model vs UFC
Where we agree & differ
The model is independent of the UFC’s panel — so it disagrees, on purpose. Here’s how the two line up.63% of UFC-ranked fighters land within 3 spots of our rank.
The model vs the UFC — the read
Our model demonstrates substantial alignment with the UFC's official rankings, with 63% of fighters landing within three positions of their official placement, establishing meaningful credibility in our data-driven approach. However, notable divergences emerge in several weight classes: the model rates Ian Machado Garry considerably lower than the UFC's top ranking at welterweight, whilst it markedly elevates Serghei Spivac and Jamahal Hill above their official placements in the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions respectively. These disagreements suggest our methodology applies more stringent performance criteria than the UFC's ranking committee, particularly regarding recent titre credentials and empirical fight metrics.