Max Holloway's 2026 Goals: Redemption, BMF, and Lightweight Belts
Max Holloway has set his sights on a thrilling 2026, fueled by a desire for redemption and a chance to conquer multiple titles. His main event at UFC 326 against Charles Oliveira promises an intense rematch, but Holloway's ambitions extend beyond this bout.
In 2015, Holloway and Oliveira clashed at UFC Saskatoon, with Holloway emerging victorious due to Oliveira's throat injury. Fast forward a decade, and both men have become champions: Holloway at featherweight and Oliveira at lightweight. Now, they prepare for a re-match that Holloway eagerly anticipates.
"Charles is an amazing fighter, a great fighter," Holloway praised. "It's a bummer we have to fight again, but it's going to be an exciting battle. He's a fan favorite, and so am I. It's what fans want to see."
However, Holloway's aspirations go beyond this fight. After losing his title bid to Ilia Topuria at UFC 308, Holloway moved up to 155 pounds. Topuria now holds the lightweight championship, and Holloway envisions a path to a potential rematch with his first knockout loss. He believes a win over Oliveira could set the stage for a high-stakes showdown with Topuria, with the BMF title and the undisputed lightweight crown on the line.
"Of course, I want another shot at Ilia," Holloway stated. "In an ideal world, we'd have an unforgettable fight, with my hand raised in triumph. We'd make history, go after Ilia, and defend the BMF title. It's a dream scenario."
But Holloway's path to redemption faces competition. Topuria is currently on a break due to personal issues, and next week's UFC 324 main event features Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett vying for the interim lightweight title. Holloway's ambitions are clear, but the road to achieving them is filled with challenges and unexpected twists.
