In 2025, a new submission record was set, and a title was successfully defended via submission. Charles Oliveira continued his dominance by submitting Mateusz Gamlot, pushing his UFC submission wins record to an incredible 17. Four title fights ended with submissions, including Mackenzie Dern, a top grappling expert, capturing her first championship. While no fighters in the top five defeated particularly dangerous opponents, as 2026 approaches, some Brazilian stars may soon rise to the occasion.
Islam Makhachev, finishing fifth on the list, had the year’s first UFC PPV main event and only title fight spot. His submission win over Renato Moicano wasn’t career-defining but displayed mastery with his signature dulce choke on short notice. The fight replaced a postponed rematch with Arman Tsarukyan, making it a memorable “what-if” matchup.
Jean Silva’s April win against Bryce Mitchell showcased his fierce aura. Despite losses for other Fighting Nerds stars, Silva’s impressive standing “ninja choke” and subsequent ground submission marked a major highlight in Miami.
Costello Van Steenis staged the year’s notable comeback during the PFL middleweight title fight in Cape Town. Though Johnny Eblen initially dominated, Van Steenis staged a stunning late comeback, choking out Eblen with less than 10 seconds left—handing him his first career defeat.
Valter Walker made history with his rare and record-breaking achievement of three heel hook submission wins in the same year, a feat previously unseen, particularly at heavyweight.
Topping the list, Anthony Hernandez delivered the most brutal rear-naked choke of the year. His dominating performance over Roman Dolidze was marked by a cold and punishing submission that left fans in awe and underscored his rising threat in the middleweight division.
Fan Take: This roundup of 2025’s elite submissions highlights the evolving artistry and excitement of grappling in MMA, showcasing not just skill but strategic brilliance. For fighting fans, these moments reinforce why submission mastery remains a cornerstone of the sport’s thrilling unpredictability and future growth.
