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

Max Holloway in presentation at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Despite facing a huge challenge in the main event... UFC 326in the person of Charles of the Bronx, Max Holloway He 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 in addition to the next BMF belt defense this Saturday (7).

See too

Charles do Bronx vs. McGregor? Brazilian reveals his only motivation for fighting the UFC star.

Tom Aspinall urges Charles Oliveira not to fall into Max Holloway's trap at UFC 326; understand why.

Charles do Bronx lists the top BMF fighters in the UFC and includes a Brazilian legend.

When asked about potential opponents after his fight with the Brazilian, Holloway didn't hesitate. He preferred to leave out 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.”

(Street… 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 the welterweight division (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 Gary e MichaelMorales.

Holloway almost faced Khabib Nurmagomedov.

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

As the fighter himself mentioned in the interview, he was even scheduled to face Khabib Nurmagomedov At UFC 213 in April 2018, the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) was at stake. At the time, he accepted the fight on short notice to replace [another fighter]. Tony FergusonHe even attended the event's press conference, but was forced to withdraw a few days later due to concussion symptoms. The Russian faced off against... To the fifth and emerged victorious by unanimous decision.