December 2025 has been an explosive month for combat sports, highlighted by Joshua Van’s remarkable rise to UFC flyweight champion and Anthony Joshua’s brutal knockout victory over Jake Paul. From UFC 323’s championship drama to shocking boxing results, here’s everything that happened.
UFC 323 Highlights – December 6, 2025
T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas witnessed history as UFC 323 delivered multiple championship-level performances and dramatic title changes.
Joshua Van Wins Flyweight Title
In an incredible Cinderella story, Joshua Van captured the UFC flyweight championship via TKO. His journey from unranked prospect to champion in just 12 months is unprecedented:
- Four fights in one year – all victories
- Rose from unranked to champion
- TKO finish in the title fight
- One of the fastest rises to a championship in UFC history
Petr Yan Dominates Merab Dvalishvili
In what many consider the single best performance of the year, Petr Yan defeated Merab Dvalishvili by unanimous decision in their bantamweight title bout. Yan comprehensively dominated the formerly undefeated champion in a remarkable turnaround from their first encounter.
The victory cements Yan’s position as one of the elite fighters in the sport and raises questions about what’s next for Dvalishvili, who suffered his first professional loss.
UFC Fight Night: Royval vs Kape – December 13, 2025
UFC APEX in Las Vegas hosted another action-packed card featuring flyweight contenders Brandon Royval and Manel Kape in the main event.
Key Results:
- Main Event: Brandon Royval vs Manel Kape – Fight for top flyweight ranking
- Highlight: Melquizael Costa completed his standout 2025 campaign with a spectacular high kick knockout of Morgan Charriere in featherweight action
Boxing: Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua – December 19, 2025
The highly anticipated clash between social media star turned boxer Jake Paul and former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua took place at Kaseya Center in Miami, streaming live on Netflix.
The Result
Anthony Joshua brutally knocked out Jake Paul in what proved to be a sobering reality check for the YouTube star. The former WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO Heavyweight champion showcased the gulf in class between professional boxing at the highest level and celebrity fights.
Aftermath and Concerns
In the wake of the knockout, UFC commentator Joe Rogan has advised Jake Paul to retire from boxing, citing concerns about severe brain damage following the devastating finish. The knockout has reignited debates about the responsibility of promoting fights between elite professionals and crossover athletes.
Undercard
- Anderson Silva vs Tyron Woodley – Boxing rematch
2025 Year-End Awards Highlights
As we approach the end of 2025, several fighters have staked their claims for year-end honors:
Submission of the Year
Charles Oliveira extended his record for the most submission wins in UFC history to 17, with one particular finish earning him Submission of the Year recognition.
Knockout of the Year Contenders
- Ilia Topuria’s knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317
- Alex Pereira’s dismantling of Magomed Ankalaev in October
Breakout Star
Mackenzie Dern became a UFC champion for the first time in 2025, capping off a breakthrough year for the Brazilian-American grappling specialist.
Upcoming Fights 2026
UFC 324 – January 24, 2026
Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs Paddy Pimblett (Interim Lightweight Title)
UFC 326 – March 7, 2026
Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Main Event: Max Holloway vs Charles Oliveira 2
Broadcast: Paramount+
Boxing – December 27, 2025
Fight: Naoya Inoue vs David Picasso
Location: Mohammed Abdo Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
What’s Next
December 2025 has set the stage for an explosive 2026 in combat sports. With new champions crowned, dramatic knockouts delivered, and blockbuster fights on the horizon, fans have plenty to look forward to in the new year.