Van And Tsarukyan Enter ESPN Pound-For-Pound Top 10

Two fighters have broken into ESPN's pound-for-pound top 10 in the latest update to the mixed martial arts rankings.

Valentina Shevchenko and Arman Tsarukyan now occupy slots in the elite list, according to ESPN's panel. The additions mark a shift in how the sport's best are evaluated across weight classes, with recent performances forcing established names out of the conversation.

The reshuffling means two fighters who previously held top-10 status have been removed to make room. ESPN's rankings consider recent fight results, strength of opposition, and dominance within individual divisions when determining placement.

Shevchenko, a former UFC flyweight champion, has long been regarded as one of the most skilled female fighters in the sport. Her technical striking and grappling have carried her through multiple title defenses, and the ranking update reflects what ESPN described as the elite status of the women's flyweight division.

Tsarukyan's inclusion follows his climb through the lightweight ranks, where a string of victories against top contenders has positioned him as a serious threat. The next rankings update will likely depend on upcoming fight results across multiple UFC weight classes.