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UFC Faces Championless Thanksgiving Amid Global Fight League Woes

11/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Thanksgiving 2025 marks the year the UFC has no male U.S. champion after Jon Jones vacated his title in June 2025.
Sean O'Malley remains the highest-ranked American fighter at No. 2.
Islam Makhachev says American fighters lack drive compared with international competitors.
The year saw the Global Fight League's failed launch and ongoing refereeing standards issues.
Fans remain hopeful for improvements in 2026.

History

Historical Context

In 2001, the UFC implemented weight classes and the Unified Rules of MMA to enhance regulation and legitimacy, as only 12 states sanctioned MMA events at the time. This shift marked a pivotal moment in the sport's evolution, reflecting ongoing competitiveness, particularly with international fighters like Islam Makhachev gaining prominence, and highlighting the need for improved training standards and athlete motivation in the U.S.

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Story summary

Thanksgiving 2025 marks the year the UFC has no male U.S. champion after Jon Jones vacated his title in June 2025.
Sean O'Malley remains the highest-ranked American fighter at No. 2.
Islam Makhachev says American fighters lack drive compared with international competitors.
The year saw the Global Fight League's failed launch and ongoing refereeing standards issues.
Fans remain hopeful for improvements in 2026.

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