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<h1>Merry Christmas to All!</h1>
<p>As the year comes to a close and with the UFC's hiatus ongoing, it's a prime moment to reflect on the most significant moments of 2025. We’ll specifically focus on the fighters who made a mark this year. Winning multiple matches counts, but the quality of the competition and their overall influence on their divisions takes precedence.</p>
<h2>2025’s “Fighters of the Year”</h2>
<h3>Petr Yan: A Stellar Performance</h3>
<p>Petr Yan's meticulous five-round triumph over "The Machine" stands out as the year's best performance. This exceptional display not only earns him a spot on this list but also highlights his clear win against the previously undefeated Marcus McGhee. His revenge victory over Merab Dvalishvili during UFC 323 showcased an impressive domination. Yan not only outperformed Dvalishvili in boxing but also excelled in clinches and maintained wrestling control throughout the bout.</p>
<h3>Islam Makhachev: Rising to Double Champion</h3>
<p>Makhachev started 2025 with a setback when a proposed rematch with Arman Tsarukyan fell through due to injury. Instead, he showcased his grappling skills by submitting Renato Moicano in a swift first-round victory, defending his Lightweight title against less-than-ideal competition. However, his fight against Jack Della Maddalena was a different story. Makhachev effortlessly dominated the bout, leading to a seamless transition to double champion status.</p>
<h3>Joshua Van: Rapid Ascent to Champion</h3>
<p>Over 12 months, Joshua Van surged from an unranked Flyweight contender to a UFC champion. He competed four times without a loss, with his most notable win against Brandon Royval marking a thrilling battle that solidified his potential. Despite some controversy around his victory over Alexandre Pantoja, Van’s impressive year sets him up for significant momentum heading into 2026.</p>
<h3>Valentina Shevchenko: Defying Expectations</h3>
<p>Despite being 37 and a veteran of the sport, Valentina Shevchenko demonstrated her longevity and skill in 2025. She first overcame the rising contender Manon Fiorot and later defended her title against Strawweight champion Zhang Weili. Both victories showcased Shevchenko's tactical prowess and underscored her legacy as one of the greatest female fighters in history.</p>
<h3>Merab Dvalishvili: A Champion's Journey</h3>
<p>Although he fell short against Petr Yan, Merab Dvalishvili's year is commendable. He handed Umar Nurmagomedov his first professional loss and outclassed Sean O’Malley in their rematch. Dvalishvili's title defenses demonstrated his determination, showcasing his ability to face top competition, even if he faced defeat later in the year.</p>
<h3>Honorable Mentions</h3>
<ul>
<li>Melquizael Costa</li>
<li>Waldo Cortes-Acosta</li>
<li>Michael Morales</li>
<li>Jiri Prochazka</li>
<li>Nassourdine Imavov</li>
<li>Benoit Saint Denis</li>
</ul>
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