Max Holloway’s unanimous decision win over Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 was a career-defining moment for the Hawaiian superstar, making him the first to successfully defend the BMF title. The main event at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans on July 19, 2025, was electric, and fans are buzzing about what’s next for Max Holloway After UFC 318. As the MMA world processes this trilogy fight, we break down Holloway’s performance, his future, and the matchups that will shape his legacy in the UFC lightweight division.
Max Holloway’s Masterclass at UFC 318
Max Holloway had something to prove at UFC 318. Facing Dustin Poirier, a man who had beaten him twice before, Holloway put on a show. The five-round war was a testament to his durability, striking and tactical brilliance. Holloway’s first-round knockdown and high volume striking throughout the fight earned him a unanimous decision win 48-47, 49-46, 49-46.
Holloway’s performance wasn’t just about defending the BMF title; it was about cementing his status as one of the UFC’s best. His record now stands at 27-8, 23-8 UFC, and he’s just 5 wins shy of the all-time wins record in the promotion. Holloway’s 3,655 significant strikes in the UFC are the most in history; he’s a pressure fighter.
Key Highlights from Holloway vs. Poirier 3
- Early Knockdown: Holloway knocked Poirier down in the first round and never looked back.
- Volume Striking: Holloway’s boxing was too much for Poirier; he outstruck him in volume.
- Resilience: Despite Poirier’s late-round surges, Holloway’s defense and footwork kept him in control.
- Historic Achievement: Holloway became the first to defend the BMF title, another chapter in his legendary career.
This win was a big bounce back for Holloway after his knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 308; he’s here to stay at 155 pounds.
Why UFC 318 Was a Turning Point for Holloway
Holloway’s win at UFC 318 wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. After losing to Topuria in his last featherweight fight, Holloway asked to be removed from the featherweight rankings; he’s all in on lightweight. His post-fight comments showed he’s feeling strong and comfortable without the weight cuts to 145.
The BMF title, often seen as a fan favourite gimmick, has some real weight behind it under Holloway’s reign. His win over Poirier, a former interim lightweight champion with wins over Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, and Eddie Alvarez, has him as a top contender in the lightweight division. So where does “Blessed” go from here?
Potential Next Opponents for Max Holloway
With the BMF title secure and Holloway ranked No. 12 in MMA Fighting’s pound-for-pound rankings, the lightweight division is full of great matchups. Here are the top options for Holloway’s next fight:
1. Ilia Topuria Rematch
Holloway has said he wants a rematch with Ilia Topuria, the current featherweight champ who knocked him out at UFC 308. Topuria has since moved to lightweight and won the title by beating Charles Oliveira. A rematch at 155 would give Holloway a chance to avenge his first career loss and potentially win the lightweight title.
- Why It Makes Sense: Holloway’s recent wins over top lightweights like Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier make him a legit challenger for Topuria’s title.
- Fan Appeal: The revenge narrative and the striking styles would be awesome.
- Holloway’s Take: “For sure. For doing what he did to me. The first man to [knock me out]. Of course, I want revenge,” Holloway said post-fight at UFC 318.
2. Charles Oliveira
Charles Oliveira, the former lightweight champ, has expressed interest in fighting Holloway for the BMF title. Oliveira’s grappling-heavy style would be a great contrast to Holloway’s striking.
- Why It Makes Sense: Oliveira’s submission skills vs Holloway’s volume would be a Fight of the Year contender.
- Challenges: Holloway would have to defend against Oliveira’s ground game, but his improved takedown defense could make this a competitive fight.
- Fan Appeal: Oliveira’s fan-friendly style and Holloway’s non-stop pace would be a fun fight.
3. Justin Gaethje Rematch
Holloway’s knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 is one of the most memorable moments in UFC history. A rematch could cement Holloway’s dominance in the division or give Gaethje his chance to get back on top.
- Why It Makes Sense: Gaethje’s style matches up perfectly with Holloway’s for another explosive fight.
- Challenges: Gaethje’s power and leg kicks are a threat, but Holloway’s durability and volume could be the difference again.
- Fan Appeal: Their first fight ended with a buzzer-beater knockout, and fans would love to see a repeat.
4. Paddy Pimblett
Paddy Pimblett was mentioned as a potential opponent, and Holloway likes his brawling style and ground game. While Pimblett is a rising star, this would be experience vs youthful ambition.
- Why It Makes Sense: Pimblett’s popularity and Holloway’s star power would draw huge numbers.
- Challenges: Pimblett would have to navigate Holloway’s volume of strikes, but his grappling could be a problem.
- Fan Appeal: Holloway called it a “fun fight” and a “Fight of the Year contender,” which is what fans want.
To see the skill comparison of Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira, please visit the Ilia Topuria vs Charles Oliveira Skill Comparisons
Holloway’s Vision for the BMF Title
Holloway mentioned his idea for the BMF title’s future in his post-fight interview at UFC 318: a fan-voted ranking system. He proposed a BMF ranking where fans decide who gets to challenge for the belt, adding an interactive element to the most unique title in the UFC.
- Why It’s Exciting: A fan-driven BMF ranking would increase engagement and make every title defence a spectacle.
- Potential Impact: It would make the BMF title more prestigious and turn it into a true representation of the most entertaining fighters in the UFC.
- Holloway’s Quote: “We need a BMF ranking. UFC, please have a BMF ranking so we can let them know.” – Holloway on the UFC 318 post-fight show.
This could change how the UFC markets the BMF title and make it the fan favourite of future events. Define how the UFC markets the BMF title, making it a fan-favorite centerpiece for future events.
What’s Next for Max Holloway After UFC 318 and his Legacy?
At 33, Holloway is just getting started. His move to lightweight has reignited his career, and he proved he can hang with the best at UFC 318. His journey from a young Hawaiian kid to UFC legend is amazing, and he’s committed to fighting the toughest guys so his legacy will keep growing.
Holloway’s dream of fighting Daniel Cormier is unlikely, but it shows he’s not afraid. His post-fight tribute to Poirier was classy as he gave the retiring fighter the spotlight in New Orleans. Holloway can be fierce in the Octagon and humble outside of it; he’s one of the most beloved guys in MMA.
Factors Shaping Holloway’s Future
- Lightweight Contention: Beating Gaethje and Poirier puts Holloway right in the mix for a lightweight title shot.
- Physical Advantages: At 155 pounds, he doesn’t have to go through harsh weight cuts, so he can recover better and be at his best.
- Fan Support: Holloway’s exciting style and likability mean he’s a draw for casual and hardcore fans.
Predictions for Holloway’s Next Move
Given Holloway’s run, a title shot against Topuria seems the most likely next move. UFC CEO Dana White said Holloway “is in a great position right now” for a lightweight title shot. Alexander Volkanovski, a former opponent, also wants a Holloway-Topuria rematch, saying Holloway has beaten the top lightweights.
Or a fight against Oliveira or Gaethje could be a big step up to the title. Holloway’s call for a BMF ranking could also force the UFC’s hand and get him a fan-voted opponent. Whatever the path, Holloway’s next fight will be a must-see.
Fight Predictions
- Holloway vs. Topuria: Holloway’s volume will overwhelm Topuria, but he’ll need to avoid the champion’s KO power.
- Holloway vs. Oliveira: Holloway’s takedown defense will be tested, but his cardio will outlast Oliveira’s early pressure.
- Holloway vs. Gaethje: A rematch will be another brawl, Holloway’s precision will give him the edge.
Conclusion: Bright Future of Max Holloway After UFC 318
Max Holloway’s win at UFC 318 was more than a title defense; it was a statement that he’s still one of the best in the world. His journey from featherweight champ to BMF titleholder and lightweight contender is a testament to his skill, heart, and adaptability. With Topuria, Oliveira, or Gaethje on the horizon, Holloway’s future is looking bright.
As the UFC lightweight division heats up, we want to see what’s next for Holloway. Will he win a world title again, or will he continue to redefine the BMF belt? Let us know in the comments below who you think he should fight next. For the latest UFC news and fight picks, subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for more on Max Holloway.