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Max Holloway has long been one of the most beloved and revered fighters in the UFC, known for his relentless striking, unbreakable chin, and an undeniable will to fight until the final bell. While his technical skills and heart are often the subject of praise, there's one gesture that has become synonymous with Holloway—his famous "point down" at the canvas.
Fans have seen him perform this iconic move in the final moments of a fight, a call for his opponent to stand and trade blows with him, even when Holloway is already winning. In an interview with ESPN's MMA YouTube channel, Holloway broke down the meaning behind this legendary in-ring gesture, offering a glimpse into the mindset and cultural significance driving it.
Holloway described the "point down" as more than just a taunt or showmanship; it’s a direct invitation to engage in the purest form of combat. “If you want to keep on doing the point down,” Holloway began, “just remember, guys, when you do the point down, it’s ‘stay there and swing,’ not point down and take a couple steps back.” In Holloway's world, the gesture is not a bluff or an attempt to posture. It's a commitment—once you point, you stay in place and throw punches.
The move is deeply rooted in Holloway's Hawaiian heritage, particularly in the warrior spirit of the west side of Oahu. "It comes from here," he said, touching on the significance of his home. "It comes from right where you’re sitting. It comes from the west side of Wahu. In the olden days, if we're talking about Hawaiians, this is where warriors used to live in. Warriors are from this side of the island, and I believe I embody that, and there’s just something in me, I’m a fighter."
For Holloway, fighting is more than just a sport—it’s a connection to his ancestors, a way of channeling the energy and warrior ethos of his homeland. When he points down at the canvas, it's an acknowledgment of that history, a way of reminding both his opponent and the audience that this moment is about more than just the scorecards. It’s about testing one’s spirit, meeting in the center of the octagon, and seeing who has the heart to stand and fight.
Holloway’s "point down" gesture is a reflection of his unwavering confidence and desire to bring out the warrior in everyone he faces. While some fighters might look to coast when they’re ahead, Holloway does the opposite—he wants the action, the challenge, and the thrill of a brawl. For him, it’s not just about winning but proving who has the heart of a warrior.
As one of the most entertaining fighters in UFC history, Holloway’s legacy will be remembered not only for his striking but also for the warrior spirit he brings into every fight. Whether it's his 25-minute wars or his famous gesture, Holloway’s message is clear: when you step into the octagon, it's not just a fight—it's a test of your soul. So the next time Holloway points down at the canvas, know that he's not just inviting his opponent to stand and swing; he's inviting them to embrace the warrior within.
At UFC 308 on October 26th, Max Holloway will step into the octagon to challenge rising star Ilia Topuria for the UFC Featherweight title, in what promises to be one of the most anticipated matchups of the year. Holloway, the former featherweight champion and UFC legend, is looking to reclaim his throne and prove once again why he’s regarded as one of the greatest featherweights of all time. Known for his relentless striking, durability, and unrivaled cardio, Holloway faces a dangerous young contender in Topuria.
Ilia Topuria, unbeaten and hungry, has quickly risen through the featherweight ranks with a series of dominant performances, including impressive finishes and a versatile skill set that has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Topuria’s wrestling, knockout power, and aggression will be put to the ultimate test against the veteran Holloway, who has made a career out of outlasting and outclassing elite opponents.
This title fight has all the ingredients of a classic, with Holloway's experience, grit, and warrior mentality meeting the raw talent and explosiveness of Topuria. For Holloway, UFC 308 represents a shot at redemption and a chance to solidify his legacy. For Topuria, it's an opportunity to announce himself as the next dominant force in the featherweight division.
Will we see his iconic point down?
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