There’s no denying that Conor McGregor has put the featherweight division in the spotlight like none before him. Although the 145-pound class has never had a problem drumming up interest, unlike the flyweight division, it’s never been a premier draw – even with a dominant champion like Jose Aldo. That has quickly changed.
The tier system is more than just another rankings list. It is an analysis of the quality of fighters and the overall depth of the division. And of course, if any of these fighters have upcoming fights, their odds are listed accordingly.
TIER 1: GENERATIONAL TALENTS
Members: Jose Aldo
Upcoming Fight Odds:
UFC 194: Aldo +145 vs. McGregor -175
Ever since the UFC created the featherweight division in 2009, Aldo has reigned supreme. He’s won 18 straight in a streak that extends back to 2006. From a historical perspective, we may never see the likes of Aldo again. And still just 28 years old, it could be a while before he loses.
TIER 2: ELITE STATUS
Members: Chad Mendes, Conor McGregor, Frankie Edgar
Yes, McGregor is favored over Aldo in their upcoming bout. Yes, he could very well become a generational talent. But it’s way too soon to put him in there yet. The Irishman needs a much bigger body of work to be considered one of the all-time greats. Mendes is still undoubtedly one of the best in the world at 145, with his only losses coming against Aldo and McGregor. Former lightweight champion McGregor has also only lost to Aldo at 145, and currently owns a four-fight against top competition.
TIER 3: BORDERLINE ALL-STARS
Members: Max Holloway, Ricardo Lamas
Lamas is a beast physically, but was dominated by Aldo and knocked out in the first round by Chad Mendes. Still, his size, skill and athleticism puts him in the division’s upper echelon. Holloway is currently riding a seven-fight win streak, with wins over Cub Swanson and Charles Oliveira in his most recent outings. At just 23 years old, the Hawaiian seems destined to reach elite status in the near future as he keeps improving his considerable arsenal.
TIER 4: THE STARTERS
Members: Cub Swanson, Charles Oliveira, Dennis Bermudez, Jeremy Stephens
Putting Bermudez and Stephens in this category might be considered a slight reach, but they are no doubt top-15 fighters in the class. Swanson was on the cusp of title contention after six straight wins, but has lost two high-profile fights in a row. At 25, Oliveira has the highest ceiling of this bunch, having already competed against top competition. The skilled, athletic Brazilian has Elite Status potential written all over him.
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