UFC Lightweight Rankings According to Spiars

Ah, why is MMA so great?

Just when you've "figured" a fighter out, he goes and knocks out a tough-as-nails opponent.

Such was the case for Tyson Griffin. Too many predictions across the web stated that Tyson Griffin would win by a boring decision. They said he lacked the killer instinct to finish fights.

Well, ask Hermes Franca about Griffin's killer instincts.

Griffin has now won two straight and continues to climb up the crowded lightweight mountain.

Gray Maynard's victory over the dearly-departed Roger Huerta puts him in contention for B.J. Penn's belt.

Since Penn defends the belt in December, the UFC will likely ask Maynard to compete in another fight before then, maybe against Sean Sherk or Tyson Griffin.

Nate Diaz's victory isn't anything to rant and rave over, even if the UFC and its marketing team will. Diaz will most likely be granted his wish of a top opponent in his next fight.

The question is, will he squander his next opportunity?

Also, keep in mind that at UFC 104 there will be an interesting matchup between Joe Stevenson and Spencer Fischer.

In this crowded division, a win's merit won't be much—just enough to keep the fighter in the race. On the other hand, a loss will be crippling and a tough obstacle to over come.

Last but not least, and although his decision is confusing to most, this is a farewell to Roger Huerta, who recently turned down a five-fight contract with the UFC to pursue a career in acting.

Roger, I commend you in the fact that you are doing what you want with your life.

Just keep MMA in you heart like the fans who are going to keep you in theirs.

Now, on to the rankings:

No. 10—Spencer Fischer (23-4)

No. 9—Joe Stevenson (30-10)

No. 8—Clay Guida (25-10)

No. 7—Tyson Griffin (14-2)

No. 6—Sean Sherk (33-4-1)

No. 5—Kenny Florian (11-4)

No. 4—Gray Maynard (9-0-1 NC)

No. 3—Frankie Edgar (10-1)

No. 2—Diego Sanchez (21-2)

No. 1—B.J. Penn (14-5-1)

Noteworthy: Roger Huerta (20-3-1), Nate Diaz (10-4)