Max Holloway previews a fight with Islam Makhachev after UFC 326: 'It would be fun'

Max Holloway during his UFC presentation. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Despite facing a huge challenge in the main event of UFC 326, in the person of Charles do Bronx , Max Holloway doesn't stop speculating about future opponents. In an interview with Paramount+ last Wednesday (4), the Blessed One made it clear that he already has a desired route for the next rounds beyond the next BMF belt defense this Saturday (7).

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When asked about potential opponents after his fight with the Brazilian, Holloway didn't hesitate. He preferred to leave aside names like Ilia Topuria and chose Islam Makhachev , ranked first in the UFC's pound-for-pound rankings and undefeated for over a decade.

“They asked me who I would like to test my skills against. I mean, we missed our chance with Khabib, so Islam is the next big bet, which would be fun,” the fighter stated.

“Islam is the next big thing” Max Holloway wants to test his skills against Islam Makhachev 👀🔥

“They asked me who you want to test yourself and test your skills against. I mean we missed the shot with Khabib, so Islam is the next big thing, so that'd be fun.”

(Via… pic.twitter.com/2zITlH42iy

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 5, 2026

Despite the Hawaiian's desire, it's difficult to envision a scenario where the duel becomes a reality. After becoming the lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) with the most title defenses in history, the Russian moved to welterweight (up to 77,1 kg), where he also became the king of the category. Currently, there are several names vying for the number one contender spot in the division, such as Ian Garry and Michael Morales.

Holloway almost faced Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Khabib and Holloway exchanged provocations before UFC 213. Photo: Reproduction / YouTube @ufc

As mentioned by the fighter himself in the interview, he was scheduled to face Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 213 in April 2018, with the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) at stake. At the time, he accepted the fight at short notice to replace Tony Ferguson . He even attended the event's press conference, but was forced to withdraw a few days later due to concussion symptoms. The Russian faced Al Iaquinta and won by unanimous decision.

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