Max Holloway Drops Concerning Update on Future Plans
Holloway reveals injury setback weeks after win in UFC 318 main event
After bouncing back from a devastating knockout loss to Ilia Topuria, Max Holloway made a triumphant return at UFC 318. Facing Dustin Poirier in a highly anticipated trilogy bout for the BMF belt—Poirier's official retirement fight—Holloway reminded fans of his elite status. He delivered a clean, calculated performance and walked away with a unanimous decision victory. Weeks later, though, a sobering update revealed that not all was well behind the scenes.
In an exclusive post-fight recap video posted to his YouTube channel, Holloway shared that his right hand suffered more damage than expected.
The featherweight-turned-lightweight contender admitted, 'If you're hoping to see me fight before the end of the year, that's probably not going to happen. I'm seeing a specialist sometime this week. I've already met with my doctor, and things aren't looking good for me to fight again this year.' The update casts doubt over his availability in what was shaping up to be a red-hot lightweight division.
With this news, Holloway will likely sit on the sidelines and assess how the lightweight picture evolves in his absence. It's a frustrating development for the Hawaiian fan favorite, who just regained momentum with a unanimous decision win over Poirier. Holloway has fought three times at lightweight—twice against Poirier and once against Justin Gaethje—making this win even more meaningful.
His absence delays any potential rematches with Charles Oliveira or Ilia Topuria, both of whom he previously faced at featherweight, or a second meeting with Justin Gaethje.
The injury may have paused his run, but it hasn't killed the hype. As always, the UFC and Dana White are sure to craft something special for Holloway's eventual return—whenever that may be.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
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