ESPN has released its annual ranking of the best undefeated fighters in MMA, with Ilia Topuria maintaining the top spot following his perfect 17-0 record. Notably, several previously unbeaten fighters have lost their first bouts recently, including former middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev who suffered his first defeat after 16 appearances.

Topuria stands out for his remarkable 100% finishing rate in title fights, having knocked out Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira in championship bouts. He defends his UFC lightweight title against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14 in Washington, D.C.

Other notable undefeated fighters include Usman Nurmagomedov (21-0) at PFL lightweight, Movsar Evloev (20-0) at UFC featherweight, and Michael Morales (19-0) at UFC welterweight. The list demonstrates the rarity of maintaining perfection in combat sports against increasingly elite competition.