Max Holloway, the former featherweight champion, is a man on a mission. After a setback earlier this year, where he lost the BMF title to Charles Oliveira, Holloway is back on track with a comfortable victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 329. This win has given him a sense of momentum and a clear direction for his next move.
Holloway's next fight is a topic of much speculation. While he is willing to wait for a trilogy with McGregor, he also has his eyes on another former rival, Justin Gaethje. The Hawaiian's knockout of Gaethje at UFC 300 is a moment that has become iconic in the sport, and it has left a lasting impression on the fans and the media alike.
In a recent stream on his Kick channel, Holloway expressed his desire for a title shot, stating, 'If it’s not Conor, give your boy a title shot. Me and Justin (Gaethje) got history. You know it’s gonna be a striking war, so why not?' This statement highlights Holloway's ambition and his willingness to take on any challenge that comes his way.
The question of whether Holloway should stay at welterweight after his divisional debut at UFC 329 is a valid one. Jack Della Maddalena believes that Holloway could dominate the weight class, which further adds to the speculation. The fact that Holloway has a history with both McGregor and Gaethje makes the potential matchups all the more intriguing.
The UFC has a decision to make regarding Holloway's next fight. With his recent success and the iconic knockout over Gaethje, the promotion could be tempted to give him a shot at a different title. However, the trilogy with McGregor is also a strong possibility, given the anticlimactic nature of their last bout and the desire for a third meeting.
The future of Holloway's career is uncertain, but one thing is clear: he is a force to be reckoned with in the UFC. His willingness to take risks and his ability to perform under pressure make him a fan favorite and a top contender for any title that comes his way. As the promotion continues to navigate the post-McGregor era, Holloway's name will undoubtedly be at the forefront of their considerations.
