In the world of mixed martial arts, there are fights, and then there are mega-fights. The upcoming main event at UFC 308 between reigning featherweight champion Ilia Topuria and former titleholder Max Holloway undoubtedly falls into the latter category. Set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, this clash of elite 145-pounders has the MMA community buzzing with excitement and intrigue.
A Champion on the Rise
Ilia Topuria burst onto the UFC scene in 2022 and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. The undefeated Spanish-Georgian phenom boasts a perfect 11-0 record, with all but one of his victories coming by way of knockout or submission. His crowning achievement came in February at UFC 298, where he dethroned long-reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski with a stunning second-round KO.
Now, as he prepares for his first title defense, Topuria finds himself facing perhaps the most significant test of his young career in Max Holloway. Known for his diverse striking arsenal, relentless pace, and uncanny ability to absorb punishment, the 31-year-old Topuria will need to be at his absolute best to turn back the challenge of a man widely considered one of the greatest featherweights of all time.
Holloway’s Path to Redemption
For Max Holloway, UFC 308 represents a chance to reclaim the featherweight throne he once held for nearly three years. The Hawaiian superstar captured the 145-pound title in 2017 and defended it three times before dropping a pair of razor-thin decisions to Volkanovski in 2019 and 2020. Undeterred, Holloway bounced back with a dominant win over Calvin Kattar in January 2021 before adding the BMF title to his collection with a thrilling fifth-round stoppage of Justin Gaethje in July.
Max’s legacy in the UFC is already cemented, but he’s not done yet. He’s determined to get that belt back around his waist.
– Close Source
Despite his previous achievements, many believe the 31-year-old Holloway is entering the latter stages of his prime. A victory over Topuria would not only see him regain UFC gold, but could also propel him into the discussion of the sport’s all-time pound-for-pound greats. With so much on the line, expect a supremely motivated Holloway to bring his A-game to the octagon.
Clash of Styles
From a stylistic standpoint, the matchup between Topuria and Holloway has all the ingredients of a potential classic. Topuria is a dynamic striker with legitimate one-punch knockout power in both hands. He’s also a skilled grappler, with six of his 11 wins coming by way of submission. This multi-faceted skill set makes him a tough puzzle to solve for any opponent.
Holloway, meanwhile, is a volume puncher who overwhelms adversaries with unrelenting flurries of precise strikes from all angles. He’s exceptionally durable and seems to only get stronger as fights progress into the championship rounds. Though not known as a one-shot KO artist like Topuria, Holloway’s accumulative damage has wilted many a foe.
Holloway’s gas tank is arguably the best in the division. He just doesn’t slow down, even in five-round fights. It’s crazy.
– Close Source
Keys to Victory
For Topuria to retain his title, a fast start will be crucial. He’ll want to establish his jab and power shots early to gain Holloway’s respect. At 5’7″ vs Holloway’s 5’11” frame, Topuria would be wise to work for takedowns and use his black belt-level Judo to ground the Hawaiian and limit his striking output. If he can drag Holloway into a grappling-heavy contest, Topuria’s chances of victory increase substantially.
Conversely, Holloway will aim to keep the fight standing and pressure Topuria with volume striking. Leg kicks could be a key weapon to compromise Topuria’s power and movement as the fight wears on. Defensively, Holloway must avoid getting backed up to the cage where Topuria can unload heavy shots or change levels for takedowns. The more Holloway can keep the champion on the end of his jab and draw out his gas tank, the better his odds become.
Expert Picks & Predictions
| Analyst | Pick | Method |
| Megan Anderson | Holloway | Decision |
| Ian Parker | Topuria | KO/TKO |
As with any elite-level MMA matchup, there are compelling arguments to be made for both combatants. Topuria has age, momentum, and crushing power on his side. Holloway boasts a significant edge in experience against world-class competition, along with the proven ability to pace himself through 25-minute championship fights.
Though the general consensus seems to give Holloway a slight advantage, the line between victory and defeat is razor thin. As Anderson states:
I think this fight could come down to Max’s durability and stamina vs Topuria’s power. If Max can weather the early storm and take this into deep waters, I favor him to get the decision. But if Topuria can find Max’s chin with one of those huge shots, it could easily be lights out.
– Megan Anderson, Former UFC Women’s Featherweight
Regardless of the outcome, Topuria vs Holloway has all the makings of an instant classic that will have fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish. With both men at the peak of their powers and everything on the line, expect 25 minutes of world-class martial arts action and drama when the octagon door locks on October 26.
