Clicks, Clout & Knockouts: The Most-Followed Fighters on Social Media
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The social media presence of UFC fighters has never mattered more. The sport’s biggest stars have turned likes, shares, and follows into millions—both in earnings and influence.
We’ve all heard Dana White say that viewership heavily influences where fighters land on a UFC card. But social media? That plays a huge part too, along with global reach and marketability. So we wanted to break it all down and see who truly has the biggest digital impact in the game.
From legends like Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey to global phenoms like Ilia Topuria and Alex Pereira, these athletes aren’t just elite fighters… They’re marketing machines. And if you’ve ever wondered who really gets that “Dana White Privilege,” the follower counts don’t lie.
Using Instagram and X totals, we ranked MMA’s most-followed fighters in 2025. Some are obvious. Some will surprise you. All of them? Massive. A few? Just getting started.
1. Conor McGregor — 57M+ Total Followers
When it comes to popularity in MMA, Conor McGregor isn’t just at the top—he’s in a league of his own. With over 57 million followers across Instagram and X, The Notorious remains the undisputed face of the sport, despite not stepping into the Octagon since 2021. His influence stretches far beyond the cage too. Whether it’s launching Proper No. Twelve whiskey, investing in BKFC, or signing hip-hop legends and rising stars to his own record label, McGregor has mastered the art of staying relevant.
What makes his rise so remarkable is how unrepeatable it feels. His magnetic trash talk, headline-grabbing antics, and crossover appeal gave him a chokehold on combat sports that hasn’t loosened one bit. Simply put, McGregor is the biggest draw the fight game has ever seen—and there’s no close second.
2. Khabib Nurmagomedov — 41M+ Total Followers
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s global appeal goes far beyond his historic clash with McGregor. With over 41 million followers, The Eagle has cemented his legacy not just as an undefeated champion, but as one of the most respected figures in MMA history. It’s only fitting he ranks second on this list. His dominance inside the Octagon and his discipline outside of it have made him a hero in Russia and a role model worldwide.
While Khabib’s moves are quieter than his peers, make no mistake, he has built an empire. From his business ventures to mentoring the next generation of Dagestani dominance to continue his father’s legacy, Khabib continues to shape the sport in a major way. The money’s there, the legacy is intact, and his influence is still very much felt, even in retirement.
3. Ronda Rousey — 20M+ Total Followers
Say what you want about Ronda Rousey, but her impact on combat sports is undeniable. And her social media presence backs it up. With over 20 million followers, not even Amanda Nunes comes close to touching her digital influence.
Ronda was truly one of one. Whether you credit her dominance to a less-evolved women’s division at the time or to the unmatched aura she carried into the cage, the fact remains… Ronda was that bitch. She’s the only female fighter on this list, and her résumé is almost mythical. She’s an Olympic medalist in judo, a trailblazing UFC champion who helped put women’s MMA on the map, and a WWE star who headlined WrestleMania and captured multiple titles along the way.
She broke barriers, dominated multiple sports, and did it all unapologetically. Ronda wasn’t just a draw—she was the moment. And truthfully, we may never see another like her again. Put some respect on her name.
4. Jon Jones — 12.4M+ Total Followers
Jon Jones may be retired now, but his spot at the top of the list among current champions and active fighters feels right. With over 12 million followers, Bones continues to be a pillar of MMA greatness—even in a new era.
The fact that he’s had more five-round fights than not is wild on its own. He’s held UFC gold across multiple generations, competing during the sport’s surge in popularity. He has even been able to remain a constant through the McGregor and Rousey boom. As stars have risen and fallen, Jones has stayed locked in at the top as a champion, and as one of the most dominant forces we’ve ever seen.
Regardless of what modern fans might say, his legacy is untouchable. When you take in the full scope of what he’s accomplished, there’s no debate—Jon Jones is the greatest of all time.
5. Anderson Silva — 12.3M+ Total Followers
Anderson Silva has done it all. He still holds the record for the longest title reign in UFC history and is widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever step inside the Octagon. Even after his MMA career, Silva found success in boxing, defeating names like Julio César Chávez Jr. and Tito Ortiz.
While The Spider has been removed from MMA for some time, his legacy and popularity remain untouched. His run in the UFC wasn’t just dominant—it was era-defining. He helped elevate the sport and shine a spotlight on the middleweight division like never before.
Surprisingly, Silva ranks at number five on this list; just behind Jon Jones and ahead of Islam Makhachev. His place in history is etched in stone, and his influence continues to be felt long after his prime.
6. Islam Makhachev — 11.1M+ Total Followers
Speaking of active champions, Islam Makhachev is right there, riding the wave of greatness Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones once defined… All while carving out his own legacy in a much shorter time. With over 11 million followers, Islam has become a global star, capturing the hearts of MMA fans and an entire nation much like his mentor.
He shares Khabib’s discipline and values, but brings his own flair. Islam hasn’t ducked a single challenge and has even leaned into the trash talk when the moment calls for it. Dominant in every sense, he’s now chasing something Khabib never attempted: conquering a second division.
Underratedly funny and sharper on social media than people give him credit for, Islam is a must-follow—especially during fight camps. We’ve been following him closely on our YouTube channel for several series. His star power is only growing, and it’s clear he’s not just carrying the Dagestani torch, he’s igniting a whole new fire.
7. Ilia Topuria — 11M+ Total Followers
Ilia Topuria is quietly becoming one of the biggest global stars in MMA, and he’s doing it his way. With over 7 million followers, El Matador is proudly representing his roots and seamlessly integrating himself into mainstream celebrity culture in Spain. While his full impact hasn’t hit the U.S. just yet, make no mistake: Ilia is a massive star.
From gracing magazine covers to promoting Disney+ shows and getting celebrated at Real Madrid games, Topuria’s profile is exploding. His rise draws clear parallels to that of Conor McGregor—and if you think that’s a stretch, just look at the résumé. Back-to-back knockouts of Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway? That’s one of the most impressive two-fight runs we’ve ever seen at featherweight.
Now that he has successfully conquered a new division, Ilia’s hype has skyrocketed. Prior to UFC 317, he was sitting around 7.6 million total followers and at #13 on this list. After the fight, his Instagram jumped from 7.3 million to 10.6 million followers, pushing him up six spots up to #7. And the wildest part? His star power is only going to grow because his career is just getting started. Still doubting it? We broke down his rare superstar potential in a full feature. Trust us, Ilia Topuria is here to stay.
8. Khamzat Chimaev — 10.4M+ Total Followers
It might surprise some, but Khamzat Chimaev is absolutely on the list—recently surpassing Israel Adesanya in total followers. The Chechen-born phenom has taken the UFC by storm, with a meteoric rise that’s only been slowed by illness and injury. Still, his sheer dominance and raw intensity have built one of the most passionate fanbases in the sport today.
What’s even wilder? He’s the only person to never hold a UFC championship on this list. That alone tells you everything you need to know about his star power. The UFC knows it too because when he couldn’t fly to the U.S., they made sure he was active in Abu Dhabi.
When Khamzat is on a card, eyes are glued. He’s a global force with unfinished business and the scariest part is his biggest moments are still ahead of him. A UFC belt feels inevitable. Smesh season is far from over.
9. Israel Adesanya — 10.3M+ Total Followers
It’s no shock that The Last Stylebender makes this list. At his peak, Israel Adesanya captivated fans like few others bringing a unique blend of elite striking, charisma, and pop culture flair to the Octagon. He wasn’t just winning fights, he was starring in them.
During his championship reign, Izzy became a crossover sensation, landing opportunities like voicing an anime character on Netflix—fitting, considering if any fighter felt like a living anime protagonist, it’s him. From unforgettable performances to intense personal feuds, Adesanya’s run at the top was full of legendary moments.
Though the belt is no longer around his waist, Izzy still got it. His legacy? Cemented. A future UFC Hall of Famer? Without question. His legendary war with Kelvin Gastelum—set for Hall of Fame induction in 2025—is just one chapter in a highlight-reel career that’s far from over. Style, substance, and star power; Izzy has got it all.
10. Nate Diaz — 9.4M+ Total Followers
It’s interesting to see how many names on this list benefited from the “Conor McGregor rub.” It’s a testament to why the lightweight division was once the hottest in the sport. While Nate Diaz already had a strong fanbase before his rivalry with McGregor, there’s no denying that their two fights elevated his star power and helped him rake in serious money.
Though he’s no longer in the UFC, Nate remains one of the most polarizing figures in combat sports. From the Stockton Slap to lighting joints at press conferences, he’s truly one of one. It’s no surprise he still cracks the top 10… His influence continues to ripple through MMA, even as he focuses on boxing and ventures outside of the sport.
11. Charles Oliveira — 8.7M+ Total Followers
It might come as a surprise to some, but Do Bronx is firmly on this list with over 8 million followers, and rightfully so. Charles Oliveira has lived through the full spectrum of a fighter’s journey. He’s gone from being labeled a quitter to becoming one of the most dangerous and beloved champions in UFC history.
His evolution has been nothing short of incredible. He’s hit rock bottom and climbed all the way to the top, silencing doubters along the way. Even without the belt, Charles remains a top contender and a certified fan favorite. The ladies love him. The boys rock with him. And when Oliveira steps into the cage, you know you’re getting a banger. Every single time.
12. Francis Ngannou — 8.4M+ Total Followers
Francis Ngannou making this list shows just how big of a signing he was for the PFL. The lineal heavyweight champion remains one of the most popular fighters in the world, and he’s done it all with class. His rise through the UFC’s heavyweight division was truly one of a kind. Fans watched him evolve from a raw, terrifying powerhouse into a more technical—and somehow even scarier—version of himself.
From betting on himself and walking away from the UFC, to representing his country proudly and stepping into the ring with Tyson Fury, Ngannou’s journey feels like something out of a movie. He’s experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. And through it all, he’s never lost that aura.
His story is far from over. Francis still has a lot more to accomplish in combat sports, and its evident that the world will be watching.
13. Georges St. Pierre — 7.7M+ Total Followers
GSP is the GOAT for so many fans—and admittedly he’s the reason I started watching MMA. Georges St-Pierre is forever one of the greatest to ever do it, and despite being retired for years, his impact is still deeply felt across the sport, especially in Canada.
At his peak, Georges was everywhere. He was a global superstar, yet still as humble as they come. From dominant title runs to coming back after a hiatus and capturing gold in a new division, GSP’s career is the stuff of legend.
It’s great to see him still make this list. Canada hasn’t seen another GSP since, and probably never will. He was massive, respected, and one of the most universally liked fighters in UFC history.
14. Alex Pereira — 7.2M+ Total Followers
Chama! Poatan cracks the list at number 14, and honestly, it couldn’t be more deserved. Alex Pereira’s rise is the stuff of legend—winning UFC gold at lightning speed, conquering multiple divisions, and stepping up time and time again when the UFC needed a hero.
We should appreciate Alex while we have him. He’s a throwback fighter in the best way possible. He’s stoic, a savage, and impossible not to root for. They really don’t make them like him anymore.
And let’s not downplay the stardom. He’s a global force. Whether it’s during fight week or international appearances, the fan turnout is massive. We’ve seen it firsthand covering him on our YouTube channel—huge lines, passionate crowds, and everyone showing up for Poatan. He’s so loved, fans were even chanting “Chama” at a Drake concert he was in attendance for. That’s aura.
15. Dustin Poirier — 6.7M+ Total Followers
The last dance is upon us—and with it, one of the best and most beloved fighters in the game prepares to hang up the gloves for good. Dustin Poirier’s retirement will be a big loss for the lightweight division. But, it also marks the beginning of a new era with doors wide open for fresh talent.
Poirier cracks the top 15 with over 6.7 million social media followers, and it’s no surprise. From capturing the interim lightweight title to picking up huge wins in high-stakes rematches, The Diamond has had an incredible run. He’s always repped his home state with pride, giving back through his foundation, and showing what it means to grow up in the sport with grace.
Now a father and husband, Dustin has truly evolved inside and outside the cage. He deserves every ounce of success—and all the flowers—while he’s still here to receive them. His retirement is a reminder that the UFC desperately needs new stars to fill the void he’s leaving behind. Because fighters like Poirier? They don’t come around often.
Fighter Social Media Influence Breakdown
As of 2025, the top 20 most popular UFC fighters on social media, based on their total combined followers across platforms like Instagram and X, are:
- Conor McGregor
- Instagram: 46.5M
- X: 10.6M
- Khabib Nurmagomedov
- Instagram: 39.4M
- X: 2.4M
- Ronda Rousey
- Instagram: 17.1M
- X: 3.2M
- Jon Jones
- Instagram: 9.4M
- X: 3M
- Anderson Silva
- Instagram: 5.2M
- X: 7.1M
- Islam Makhachev
- Instagram: 10.4M
- X: 762.2K
- Ilia Topuria
- Instagram: 10.6M
- X: 426.7K
- Khamzat Chimaev
- Instagram: 9.6M
- X: 808.8K
- Israel Adesanya
- Instagram: 8.5M
- X: 1.8M
- Nate Diaz
- Instagram: 7.1M
- X: 2.3M
- Charles Oliveira
- Instagram: 8.1M
- X: 676.3K
- Francis Ngannou
- Instagram: 7.2M
- X: 1.2M
- Georges St. Pierre
- Instagram: 5.6M
- X: 2.1M
- Alex Pereira
- Instagram: 6.9M
- X: 308.3K
- Dustin Poirier
- Instagram: 5.5M
- X: 1.2M
- Max Holloway
- Instagram: 5.5M
- X: 1M
- Daniel Cormier
- Instagram: 4.1M
- X: 1.5M
- Sean O’Malley
- Instagram: 4.5M
- X: 860.1K
- Kamaru Usman
- Instagram: 3.6M
- X: 1M
- Paddy Pimblett
- Instagram: 4.3M
- X: 197K
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