Ilia Topuria, the current UFC featherweight champion, has openly challenged Max Holloway to a title fight, suggesting that Holloway’s absence from the ring is not due to personal issues as previously claimed. Topuria, who recently became champion by defeating Alexander Volkanovski, is eager for his first title defense and has called out Holloway, a former featherweight champion known for his last-second knockout victory at UFC 300.
Holloway, unfazed by the allegations, has humorously proposed a fight at the Sphere in Las Vegas for UFC 306 on September 14, even suggesting a toe hold as the method of victory. Topuria, with an undefeated record and a history of submission wins, responded with respect but expressed his excitement at the prospect of being the first to knock out Holloway.
The potential matchup between Topuria and Holloway is generating buzz in the MMA community, with both fighters showcasing confidence and a readiness to engage in what could be a memorable battle for the featherweight title. Holloway’s experience and Topuria’s impressive record set the stage for a highly anticipated fight at UFC 306.