Topuria is considered a rising star in the UFC. He boasts a perfect 17-0 professional record, including 9 wins in the UFC. In his last three fights, he knocked out Alexander Volkanovski and Holloway to claim the featherweight title, then knocked out Charles Oliveira in the first round to become the new lightweight champion.

Ilia Topuria (right) strikes Max Holloway during their featherweight title fight at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, UAE on 26/10/2024. Photo: Zuffa LLC

Ilia Topuria (right) strikes Max Holloway during their featherweight title fight at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, UAE on 26/10/2024. Photo: Zuffa LLC

However, Holloway believes these victories aren't entirely convincing. "Topuria beat some big names, you can't deny that," Holloway told CBS Sports on 13/7. "But people are just looking at the names, not the records. It's crazy. They just think, 'Oh, Volkanovski is the champ,' then me and Oliveira."

Holloway points out that Topuria's defeated opponents weren't at their peak. Volkanovski had recently lost to Islam Makhachev before facing Topuria, and Oliveira had only one win after losing his title to Makhachev.

"Ultimately, it's all about timing and circumstance. Topuria did his job. The UFC gave him opponents, and he beat them. I can't take that away from him," Holloway added.

In October 2024, Holloway suffered his first career knockout loss against Topuria. However, he doesn't consider Topuria the hardest hitter he's faced. "I didn't feel his punches were that heavy," the 33-year-old said. "Compared to fighting Justin Gaethje, I really felt the power. Gaethje hits hard."

Despite his assessment, the former featherweight champion concluded the interview with praise for Topuria. "It's hard to deny that Topuria could be one of the best fighters in UFC history. No doubt about it," Holloway admitted.

Holloway's professional MMA career began in 2010 at the age of 18. He debuted in the UFC against Dustin Poirier in February 2012.

From 2014 to 2016, Holloway won 10 consecutive fights, including impressive victories over Cub Swanson, Charles Oliveira, and Ricardo Lamas, establishing himself as a top featherweight contender. He won the championship by defeating Jose Aldo in June 2017 and defended it against Aldo, Brian Ortega, and Frankie Edgar.

In 2019, Holloway moved up to lightweight to challenge Dustin Poirier for the interim title but lost after five rounds. He returned to featherweight, lost the title to Alexander Volkanovski, and subsequently failed to reclaim it against Volkanovski and Topuria.

On 19/7, Holloway will face Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 in New Orleans, their third encounter. Holloway lost the previous two fights.

UFC 318 could be Poirier's final fight. For Holloway, it's a chance for redemption and to prove he can still contend for the lightweight title, potentially setting up a rematch with Topuria.

Hong Duy compiled this report.