Predicting the future of UFC fighters is akin to forecasting a year-long weather pattern—you gather all available data, analyze trends, and present a thoughtful projection. While some predictions may be spot-on, others may deviate, as fights are as unpredictable as the weather. Fighters who enter the year on a hot streak can just as easily maintain momentum or face unforeseen hurdles. That said, let’s dive into the list of female fighters poised to make waves in the UFC cage in 2025.
Jacqueline Cavalcanti: A Future Bantamweight Contender
Jacqueline Cavalcanti has quickly become one of the most exciting names in the women’s bantamweight division. After a successful debut against Zarah Fairn in Paris in September 2024, Cavalcanti maintained her momentum with a split decision win over Josiane Nunes in August and a dominant victory over Nora Cornolle. Her evolving skill set and growing confidence in the Octagon make her a compelling fighter to watch.
At 27, Cavalcanti possesses the athleticism and hunger to climb the ranks. Currently positioned at No. 14 in the division, she could very well break into the Top 10 with the right matchups in early 2025. With a six-fight winning streak, don’t be surprised if Cavalcanti emerges as a Top 5 contender by the end of the year.
Jasmine Jasudavicius: The Canadian Flyweight Sensation
Canadian fighter Jasmine Jasudavicius has been on a tear, accounting for 20% of Canada’s UFC wins in 2024 alone. Starting her year with a third-round finish of Priscila Cachoeira at UFC 297, she followed up with decision wins over Fatima Kline and a D’Arce choke submission of Ariane da Silva.
Jasudavicius’ growth and confidence have been evident, making her a serious threat in the flyweight division. Entering 2025 ranked No. 12, she is slated to face Mayra Bueno Silva in February. A win would propel her further up the rankings and potentially set up a marquee fight later in the year. Given her current trajectory, Jasudavicius could find herself in title contention by year’s end.
Fatima Kline: A Dark Horse in the Strawweight Division
Despite a setback in her UFC debut against Jasudavicius, Fatima Kline remains a promising talent. That fight, taken on short notice and up a division, showcased her grit and potential. Before entering the UFC, Kline amassed a 6-0 record, including championship victories in Cage Fury Fighting Championships (CFFC) and a dominant stint in Invicta FC.
A training partner of flyweight contender Erin Blanchfield, Kline has the pedigree and environment to succeed. Scheduled to make her strawweight debut against Viktoriia Dudakova in January, an early win could set the stage for a busy 2025. If she competes three times and performs well, Kline could be knocking on the door of the Top 15 by year’s end.
Iasmin Lucindo: The Young Phenom Poised for Greatness
At just 22 years old, Iasmin Lucindo has already carved a place for herself in the UFC strawweight Top 10. Her victories over Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Marina Rodriguez in 2024 highlighted her ability to compete with seasoned veterans.
Lucindo’s combination of youth, skill, and composure suggests that her ceiling is incredibly high. Ranked No. 7 entering 2025, she has ample time to refine her craft and climb higher in the rankings. Given her age, it’s likely we haven’t even seen her peak yet. Expect Lucindo to continue her ascent and potentially challenge for a title in the near future.
Miranda Maverick: Ready for a Breakout Year
Miranda Maverick’s UFC journey has been one of promise interspersed with hurdles. Now 27, Maverick ended 2024 on a four-fight winning streak, including a unanimous decision victory over Jamey-Lyn Horth. Despite previous losses to Erin Blanchfield and Maycee Barber, Maverick has shown steady improvement and resilience.
Under the guidance of coach Eliot Marshall, Maverick appears primed for a breakout year. With her well-rounded skill set and growing confidence, 2025 could be the year she cements her place in the flyweight Top 10. All she needs is the right opportunity against a ranked opponent to showcase her full potential.
While forecasting UFC success is never a guarantee, the fighters highlighted here have demonstrated the talent, growth, and potential to make significant strides in 2025.
Whether it’s Cavalcanti breaking into the bantamweight Top 5, Lucindo continuing her rapid rise, or Maverick finally putting it all together, the coming year promises excitement and evolution in women’s MMA.
Stay tuned, as these rising stars could very well define the next era of female competition in the UFC cage. With youth, skill, and opportunity on their side, 2025 may just be their year to shine.