Holloway opens the door for a rematch with Topuria at lightweight, even challenging BMF

The rivalry between Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria may not be over yet. In a bold statement shared by Sportskeeda Combat, Holloway has thrown down the gauntlet, expressing his openness to a rematch with the reigning featherweight king—this time at lightweight (155 lbs).

The image shared by Sportskeeda captures the fiery sentiment from Holloway, who addressed Topuria’s recent championship triumph and the aura surrounding his rise.

“When I found out he got the title shot, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ I think I was the happiest man alive… I know old boy likes walking around with a BMF title, but if he wants an authentic one, he needs to find me.”
— Max Holloway, via MMA Junkie

From Featherweight Wars to Lightweight Aspirations

Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria shared a fierce battle in their previous encounter, with Topuria edging out the Hawaiian legend in a razor-close contest. Holloway, who has repeatedly demonstrated his warrior spirit by fighting the toughest competition in multiple divisions, now sets his sights on a new chapter—welcoming Topuria to lightweight.

The move up in weight comes after Holloway captured the BMF (Baddest Motherf***) title**, a symbolic belt for the UFC’s most fearless fighters. Meanwhile, Topuria, fresh off claiming the undisputed featherweight crown, has expressed interest in testing himself against the sport’s elite across divisions.

Holloway’s Message to Topuria: “Find Me at 155”

For Holloway, this potential rematch is about authenticity and legacy. While Topuria holds the official featherweight title, Holloway suggests that to claim true greatness, Topuria must step up and face him again—this time on his terms.

The quote, “If he wants an authentic one, he needs to find me,” is a direct challenge, calling into question the completeness of Topuria’s title reign without a definitive rematch against one of the division’s all-time greats.

What Would a 155-Pound Clash Look Like?

A rematch at lightweight would offer a fascinating dynamic shift:

• Power & Durability: Holloway has fought at 155 before, most notably in a competitive loss to Dustin Poirier. He’s durable, relentless, and has shown his chin can withstand heavier punches.

• Topuria’s Speed vs. Power Balance: Moving up may allow Topuria to retain his speed advantage, but he’ll face bigger, stronger opponents—Holloway included.

• Cardio War: Holloway’s high-volume striking has overwhelmed countless opponents. Can Topuria match that pace over five rounds at a higher weight?

The stylistic matchup remains intriguing, with Holloway’s precision and pace counterbalanced by Topuria’s explosive power and grappling prowess.

What This Means for the Lightweight Division

The lightweight landscape is stacked with elite contenders, but a super-fight like Holloway vs. Topuria could generate massive interest, much like past cross-division clashes (McGregor vs. Alvarez, Holloway vs. Poirier).

Although neither man holds a lightweight belt, their star power and accomplishments would make this a main event-caliber bout—perhaps at a massive venue like Madison Square Garden or during the UFC’s end-of-year spectacular.

Fan Reactions: Excitement Builds

Social media has already exploded with fans debating whether Topuria should accept the challenge. Many feel the rematch is necessary to settle unfinished business, while others believe Topuria should defend his featherweight title against rising contenders like Movsar Evloev or Arnold Allen.

Regardless, the potential for fireworks in a Holloway vs. Topuria 2 has captivated the MMA world.

Topuria’s Response: Silence or Fire?

So far, Ilia Topuria has not publicly responded to Holloway’s callout. Known for his confidence and fighting spirit, it would not be surprising if the Spanish-Georgian champion fired back soon, adding fuel to the growing hype.

Topuria may also weigh the strategic implications. A win over Holloway at lightweight would dramatically increase his stock, possibly setting him up for a future lightweight title shot against the likes of Islam Makhachev or Arman Tsarukyan.

The Road Ahead: What Does the UFC Do?

UFC President Dana White has multiple compelling options for both fighters:

• For Holloway: A defense of the BMF title against other lightweight fan favorites, or this rematch with Topuria.

• For Topuria: Either solidify his reign at featherweight or chase greatness by moving up for blockbuster bouts.

Final Thoughts: A Fight for Legacy, Not Just Titles

Max Holloway vs. Ilia Topuria 2 isn’t just a clash of styles; it’s a battle of legacies. Holloway wants to remind the world why he’s one of the greatest featherweights—and now lightweights—of all time. Topuria, the hungry new king, aims to prove his dominance transcends divisions.

If the rematch happens at 155 lbs, expect an all-out war that could redefine both fighters’ careers.