Max Holloway is set to face Charles Oliveira in a highly anticipated BMF title match at UFC 326 in March. This marks an important chapter in their rivalry, as it will be their first encounter since 2015, when Holloway secured a first-round TKO due to an esophageal injury suffered by Oliveira.
Over the past decade, both fighters have established themselves as prominent representatives of the UFC, each clinching championships in their respective weight classes. Now, 11 years later, they will meet again to determine who reigns as the world’s top “Boy In Luv.”
In a recent interview with TNT Fight Sports, Holloway spoke highly of Oliveira, acknowledging him as an excellent fighter. He conveyed, “The only sad thing is that he met me again. It’s going to be a really fun game. Oliveira is a ‘fighter’s favorite fighter’ and so am I. That’s what fans expect.” He also addressed the emotional stakes for fans who might be torn about their matchup, affirming the necessity of the fight regardless of sentiment.
For Holloway, this showdown is more than just a title defense; it’s a strategic step toward a larger goal — a rematch with Ilya Topuria. Holloway previously faced Topuria in a featherweight title bout at UFC 308, where he suffered his first knockout defeat in his career. Topuria’s prowess was evident as he secured a victory over Alexander Volkanovski to ascend to the top.
Holloway is determined to reclaim his place and views the matchup against Oliveira as a crucial milestone. He expressed his ambitions clearly: “If it’s a perfect scenario, you should definitely beat Oliveira. It’s about winning so overwhelmingly that no one can deny it.” He dreams of holding both the BMF and lightweight titles simultaneously.
Despite his aspirations, Holloway faces a delay in his plans, as Topuria is currently sidelined due to personal issues and will not return until later this year. Consequently, a temporary lightweight title match between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett is set to take place at UFC 324. While the path to the rematch with Topuria may take more time than Holloway had hoped, his focus remains firmly on the upcoming bout with Oliveira, which he views as the first step toward achieving his broader goals in the octagon.
Holloway’s journey reflects the resilience and determination characteristic of champions, and fans will be eagerly watching as he seeks to reclaim his status as one of the best fighters in the UFC.