What does Brock Lesnar’s new UFC heavyweight ranking mean?

Brock Lesnar is in the top 10 of the UFC Heavyweight rankings after beating No. 8 heavyweight Mark Hunt at UFC 200.

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Brock Lesnar has moved into the top 10 of the UFC heavyweight rankings after beating No. 8 heavyweight Mark Hunt at UFC 200. He is listed at No. 8 after being unranked previously. 

So what’s the big deal?

For Lesnar, who was inactive for five years before his fight against Hunt, it’s another indicator that his UFC career might not be over.

Sure, the voting system routinely comes under criticism, but there has also been speculation that the UFC has adjusted rankings to help make matchups look better. If the UFC wanted Brock Lesnar to fight again, having him in the rankings is helpful and marketable. It’s a sign that he might be slated in future fights. 

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This hasn't been the only indication Lesnar might not be done. Lesnar is going to continue to be tested by USADA, as all UFC fighters are, even though there are no public plans for him to return, and he is under contract with the WWE.

Lesnar left the door open during his post-fight press conference at UFC 200.

"I've been gone for five years, I stepped into the Octagon tonight with a guy ranked No. 8 in the world. You can write what you want to write, but I think I'm the toughest son of a (expletive) and I'm top-10 and it puts me right in the game," Lesnar said.

"Granted, I got some work to do, but don't we all. If I want to make that decision and keep fighting, I will."

UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic already made it clear he has no qualms fighting Lesnar if he can successfully defend his belt against Alistair Overeem at UFC 203.

Only time will tell if Lesnar returns to the UFC, but the door is wide open.