The UFC’s celebrated BMF title bouts consistently deliver thrilling spectacles, pitting fan-favorite fighters against each other in contests that rarely disappoint. Former featherweight champion Max Holloway is set to defend his BMF belt for the second time in the main event of UFC 326, where he will face former lightweight titleholder Charles Oliveira.
This highly anticipated UFC 326 headliner marks a significant rematch, with their initial encounter taking place 11 years ago at UFC Fight Night 74. In that featherweight contest, Holloway secured a victory early in the opening round after Oliveira sustained a neck injury, leading to a stoppage. Ahead of their second clash, current undisputed featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski meticulously analyzed the matchup and shared his professional prediction.
Volkanovski observed that Charles Oliveira typically adheres to a singular, aggressive fighting style, which he believes will remain consistent for a BMF title fight. “You won’t observe lateral movement from Charles, nor will you see him fighting at long range,” Volkanovski explained. “Instead, expect him to relentlessly press forward, employing his characteristic high guard. He favors pushing into that close-range ‘firing’ zone, unafraid to directly engage and clash with his opponents.”
Regarding Max Holloway, Volkanovski clarified that while “Blessed” isn’t primarily known as a knockout artist, he certainly possesses the ability to finish fights, as demonstrated against opponents like Justin Gaethje. “His capacity to hurt opponents stems more from precise timing and significant volume, rather than relying solely on singular power shots,” Volkanovski elaborated. “Holloway will likely be more calculated in his approach, not actively seeking massive bombs unless it’s a critical moment, such as the final ten seconds of a BMF fight.”
Given his three victories over Holloway, Volkanovski is arguably the foremost authority on the Hawaiian fighter’s capabilities. He highlighted Holloway’s elite-level footwork, impeccable timing, and robust takedown defense. Praising Holloway’s exceptional fight IQ and solid grappling skills, Volkanovski concluded that these attributes position “Blessed” for success.
Based on his comprehensive analysis, Volkanovski confidently predicted a victory for Max Holloway on Saturday. “I believe Max Holloway will get the win,” he stated. When pressed about a potential finish, Volkanovski added, “Can he get a finish? Absolutely, I think he can. And you know what? I’m going to predict a finish for Max.”
