In a spectacular display of skill and power, Ilia Topuria successfully defended his UFC featherweight title against former champion Max Holloway at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi. The undefeated Spanish-Georgian fighter lived up to his pre-fight promises, becoming the first man to knock out the legendary Holloway in a thrilling third-round finish.
Ilia Topuria becomes the 1st person to KO Max Holloway 😠pic.twitter.com/Nn6YqKOJyz
— Ben Davis (@BenTheBaneDavis) October 26, 2024
The highly anticipated main event was billed as a clash between the old and new guard of the featherweight division. Topuria, representing the new generation, faced off against Holloway, a beloved veteran and former champion1. The respect between the two fighters was evident, with Topuria acknowledging Holloway as an inspiration for his UFC career.
As the fight unfolded, it became clear that both men were ready to put on a show for the fans. Holloway, true to his reputation, agreed to meet Topuria in the center of the Octagon for a high-stakes boxing match. The first two rounds were closely contested, with Holloway’s volume and precision jab testing Topuria’s defense. However, the champion’s speed and power began to make an impact, landing significant shots that caught Holloway’s attention.
In the third round, Topuria’s relentless pressure finally paid off. He connected with a devastating right hand that visibly rocked Holloway, followed by a blistering left that sent the Hawaiian crashing to the canvas2. A few follow-up strikes later, and the referee stepped in to halt the contest, cementing Topuria’s status as the undisputed featherweight king.
The victory was a statement performance for Topuria, who has now finished both Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway in consecutive fights. These wins against two of the greatest featherweights in UFC history have solidified Topuria’s position as a dominant force in the division and a rising star in the sport.
In the post-fight aftermath, UFC President Dana White was quick to praise Topuria’s performance. “If you question Topuria after the Volkanovski win, you’re definitely not questioning him after tonight,” White stated, emphasizing the champion’s undeniable talent and potential.
Addressing the future of the division, White confirmed that former champion Alexander Volkanovski would be next in line for a title shot. “We’re not going to say no to Volkanovski. He’s been that guy for us. Any time we needed him,” White explained, acknowledging Volkanovski’s status as a company man and his contributions to the UFC.
White says that if you question Topuria after the Volkanovski win, you’re definitely not questioning him after tonight.
White says Volkanovski is next.
“We’re not going to say no to Volkanovski. He’s been that guy for us. Any time we needed him.”
— Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) October 26, 2024
This announcement sets the stage for an intriguing rematch between Topuria and Volkanovski. Their first encounter at UFC 298 in February saw Topuria claim the title with a second-round TKO, ending Volkanovski’s long reign as champion1. The rematch promises to be another high-stakes battle, with Volkanovski seeking redemption and Topuria aiming to prove his first victory was no fluke.
