Max Holloway says that after UFC 300 BMF title fight vs. Justin Gaethje, a lot of doors are going to open for him. Why does Holloway have such a perspective towards his fighting career? What was the reason behind making such a comment? Continue reading to find out!
The former featherweight champion of the UFC was vying for the belt again following victories over Chan Sung Jung and Arnold Allen in 2023. Sadly, Holloway was not in agreement with the promotion. The next title matchup in the division was scheduled to pit rising prospect Ilia Topuria versus Alexander Volkanovski.
Should a return to lightweight be the next step, then elite candidates like Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira were also out of the running. But when a matchup against Justin Gaethje for the BMF belt became available for UFC 300, everything went nicely.
Holloway explained to Kevin Iole that at the time, Oliveira and Islam had already been booked, and he had just come off a significant victory with the ‘Korean Zombie.’ Additionally, the featherweight title at 145 pounds was also scheduled. Holloway mentioned his preference for having options and expressed that at 145, he believed the next step for him was to compete for the title. Despite expecting a third fight with Volk, he had to face Arnold and the Korean Zombie, and after those victories, he thought a title shot was in line. However, the promotion went in a different direction. With Justin Gaethje needing a dance partner and considering that the BMF belt was appealing, Holloway saw an opportunity at 155 pounds. He emphasized his ability to compete in both weight classes, being only 10 pounds away from 145, and decided to throw his name into the mix at 155.
The Hawaiian is aware of the outcry that followed the announcement of the bout. Holloway may have been even more motivated to be ready due to worries about his power disadvantage versus a high-volume pressure fighter.
In the end, Holloway is thrilled about the possibility of winning the BMF title and being able to defend it across several weight classes. If Holloway is successful in capturing the title by defeating Gaethje, it might follow him wherever he goes because it isn’t attached to any one division.
Holloway expressed that having options is crucial, anticipating that numerous opportunities would arise. He mentioned that many doors would open, and a variety of choices might become available. Holloway emphasized the importance of focusing on the current task at hand, facing a formidable opponent in Justin Gaethje. He stated that his primary focus was on winning the upcoming fight and mentioned that after that, a multitude of possibilities could unfold. The goal was to secure a victory and, in his words, “shock the world.”
What do you feel about Holloway’s views towards his fighting career? Do you agree with him? Do let us know about your thoughts in the comment section!
