The featherweight king Ilia Topuria has seemingly confirmed that Max Holloway will be his first title defence. In an interview with Spanish network El Hormiguero has confirmed Blessed is next.
In the interview Topuria was asked if Holloway was his next fight and replied, “Yes, it will be Holloway”. This is huge as there has been speculation since the Gaethje fight if Holloway should get the shot over Volkanovski. Volkanovski has been adamant about getting his rematch but Holloway may have thrown a spanner into the works with his magnificent victory over Gaethje. This has seemingly worked as Ilia was initially not receptive to the idea of fighting Max when he first won the title.
Ilia then said, “it has been difficult for[Max] to accept the challenge, but it is clear he is next”. This is just false Max has demonstrated he’s very willing to fight Ilia. Simply look at his callout of Ilia after the Gaethje KO in the post fight interview. There’s also Max’s history consistently fighting the best and is very willing to take risks against anyone. So this is a very strange angle for Ilia to go for. However, this does show Ilia does think Max is worthy of a shot.
Ilia also went on to say, “wherever, whenever, at whatever weight” making it clear he’s very open to the fight. This tells us Ilia isn’t as fixed on the idea of fighting in Spain which was something he initially seemed set on. The mention of whenever may also suggest Ilia is maybe tired of waiting for Volk leading him to being more receptive to Max. The openness regarding weight however is strange. Considering Ilia is the featherweight champion and Max wants the 145 belt it should be obvious the fight should be at 145.
UFC Featherweight Ilia Topuria Confirms Max Holloway as Easy Title Defense
The interview once again showed Ilia’s unshakeable confidence. Ilia addressed Holloway and said, “You get to choose if you want me to finish you, to knock you out”. Very bold indeed as Max has never been knocked out and his chin has showed no signs of declining. Max is also looking as good as ever shown with his great performance against Gaethje. Ilia also warned for Holloway telling him, “don’t forget the pillow for when you go to sleep”. Again reiterating his intent to knock out Max.
Although certainly not impossible Ilia Topuria knocking out Max Holloway seems unlikely. Max’s chin has shown no signs of giving in so far and held up very well against Gaethe easily the biggest puncher Max has faced. Max was dropped by Gaethje however he did recover very quickly showing he can take Gaethje’s power. So if Max can take Gaethje’s power it should stand to reason he can take Ilia’s shots. However, this fight will likely be at 145 so the cut back to 145 from 155 could affect Holloway. But Max for all of his career has shown he can eat big shots at 145.
That being said Ilia Topuria is a big puncher with nice boxing so is a big threat as seen against Volkanvoski. Ilia also has his grappling in his back pocket which he could use against Max to mix it up. It should be a great fight if it happens. The fight is yet to be confirmed by the UFC but if it does be sure to tune in.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
