Ilia Topuria in victory over Max Holloway No. UFC 308. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram UFC Europe
In the main fight of UFC 318, held last Saturday (19), Max Holloway led a real war against Dustin poirier and defended the BMF belt in the best style, reinforcing his reputation as a warrior inside the octagon.
Despite the impressive performance, some question whether Holloway truly deserves the title of 'toughest fighter' in the UFC. Shortly after the official victory result, Ilia Topuria used his social media to provoke the Hawaiian, reminding him that he had already beaten him on another occasion.
“Still mine,” Topuria wrote alongside an image of the BMF belt.
Still mine pic.twitter.com/1Z7qWeXXGM
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) July 20, 2025
Max Holloway criticizes Ilia Topuria for self-proclaiming himself BMF champion
After knock off Max Holloway No. UFC 308, Ilia Topuria declared himself UFC BMF champion, as the Hawaiian held the symbolic belt. However, the fight in question was only for the featherweight title (up to 65,7 kg), and not for the title of 'toughest' in the organization.
At the post-UFC 318 press conference, Holloway expressed discomfort with the Spaniard's stance. The Hawaiian said it made no sense for Topuria to be showing off a belt he'd never officially won, emphasizing that the BMF title wasn't up for grabs in that fight.
"Ultimately, when the UFC didn't put the belt on the line, that's what happened, you know? But it also doesn't make any sense what he's doing, walking around with that thing, I don't know..." Holloway said.
The BMF champion also criticized Topuria's investment in a replica belt, calling it excessive and unnecessary. Holloway called the purchase a waste.
"Like, it's over, the belt wasn't up for grabs, get over it, bro. Why waste money on a damn fake belt, you know? That's just crazy to me. I know you're rich now, but man, that's a huge waste of money," concluded the BMF champion.
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