Max Holloway is gearing up for a significant challenge as he prepares to defend his BMF title against Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 326 on March 7. Holloway, widely known as ‘Blessed,’ has the distinction of being the only fighter to have successfully defended this title and is eager to build upon his recent successes as he transitions into the lightweight division. With aspirations of securing a shot at the lightweight championship, he is also intent on avenging his only loss at featherweight to Ilia Topuria.
The rivalry between Holloway and Topuria was ignited back at UFC 308, where Topuria handed Holloway a definitive defeat, marking his first and only title defense of the featherweight division. Topuria’s decisive win came via a powerful left hook, cementing his status as a formidable contender. Since then, both fighters have moved away from the featherweight category and have set their sights on higher stakes in the lightweight division.
After a stunning knockout victory against Justin Gaethje, Holloway’s journey has been fueled by a series of triumphant performances, including a victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 318. He has made it clear that his ultimate ambition is to reclaim a championship title, expressing excitement about his new endeavors in the lightweight realm. “I want the undisputed belt. That’s all I want. I had it for a while at featherweight. Now we’re at lightweight, and I feel good, I feel strong, fast. I’m excited to have my name in the game,” he stated during a live broadcast on Kick.
Their paths may cross again in the future, particularly if Topuria can navigate his return to the octagon successfully. Both fighters appear to be on a collision course, but for that to happen, Holloway must first retain his BMF title against Oliveira, while Topuria will need to unify his interim championship with Gaethje later in 2026.
Adding to the storyline, Holloway recently shared his support for Topuria during a difficult personal period, reflecting a mutual understanding seeded in their shared experiences as professional fighters. However, should Topuria defeat Gaethje, he may pursue a move to the welterweight division, setting sights on becoming the first triple champion in UFC history. Should that scenario play out, Holloway might be presented with an opportunity to fight for the lightweight title, albeit with lingering questions about whether he will ever get closure on his earlier defeat to Topuria.
The landscape of the UFC is always shifting, and with each fighter’s aspirations at stake, the excitement builds for what could unfold in the coming months. Fans are surely hoping to witness a riveting matchup that not only determines the title holders but reignites the fierce rivalry between Holloway and Topuria.