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Max Holloway has become synonymous with the UFC’s featherweight division, building a legacy through battles, title defenses, and jaw-dropping performances. For years, he reigned at 145 pounds, earning his place among the division’s all-time greats. However, after a tough loss to rising star Ilia Topuria at UFC 308, Holloway (26-7 MMA, 22-7 UFC) is ready to leave featherweight behind and set his sights on a fresh challenge—permanently competing at lightweight.
In a heartfelt video on his YouTube channel, Holloway shared his decision. “This is like my phoenix moment, from the ashes we’re reborn,” he said. The loss to Topuria left a bittersweet note on his featherweight career, but Holloway’s focus has shifted to new horizons. Turning 33 soon, he acknowledged the toll featherweight weight cuts have taken on his body, despite years of successfully making the limit. “I don’t ever want to give up ramen again,” he joked, referring to the sacrifices of his 145-pound camps. The time has come, he declared, for a fresh chapter at 155 pounds—a division where he’s already left an impression.
Holloway’s two prior lightweight bouts were unforgettable. In his 2019 clash with Dustin Poirier, he lost a close decision in an action-packed bout for the interim lightweight title. Years later, at UFC 300, he returned to lightweight with a bang, delivering a highlight-reel knockout against Justin Gaethje that will live on in MMA lore. However, Holloway admits he never fully committed to lightweight, always keeping one foot in featherweight’s door. Now, with his featherweight chapter closed, he’s excited to make a physical transformation and “put some size on” for a full-throttle run at 155.
“When I do make the return it’s going to be at 155 and we’re there to stay,” Holloway shared, hinting that the version fans saw against Gaethje is only a glimpse of his potential at lightweight. With time to bulk up and refine his skills, Holloway believes he can be an even greater force in the division. His goal? To return by International Fight Week in July 2025, ideally headlining a blockbuster Las Vegas card. “I would love to be back on the Ninth Island in Las Vegas,” he said, with the vision of fighting a top-ranked lightweight in his return.
As a former featherweight champion, Holloway has already proven he’s championship material. His journey at lightweight, though, opens up a world of new opponents and possibilities. Whether it’s defending his BMF title, taking a top contender fight, or working his way toward another title shot, Holloway knows there are “a bunch of fun fights” awaiting him at 155 pounds. While he hasn’t named a specific opponent, the division is stacked with intriguing matchups that could make for thrilling bouts.
Max Holloway’s legacy in the UFC’s featherweight division is secure, and his next chapter promises to be just as compelling. The featherweight king has turned lightweight contender, and fans are eager to see where this next journey takes him.
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