UFC News: Max Holloway Reveals Why He Snubbed Title Shot for BMF Strap Against Justin Gaethje at UFC 300

Max Holloway recently made a surprising confession about why he agreed to face Justin Gaethje at UFC 300! The former UFC featherweight champion will be taking on Gaethje for the ‘BMF’ title at the historic event which will take place on April 13th. Both men are known for their action-packed fighting styles and embody the spirit of the ‘BMF’ belt.

However, many experts and fans were stunned by the announcement of the clash, including former lightweight champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov, who stated in an interview with MMA Junkie, “Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway, it makes no sense in my opinion.” But in a recent statement, Holloway has revealed the reasons behind why he chose to pursue a clash against Gaethje instead of a shot at reclaiming his featherweight crown!

Justin Gaethje fight accepted by Max Holloway due to concerns with his future in the featherweight division

Max Holloway recently highlighted the fact that his decision to take on Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 was based on the situation in the featherweight division. At UFC 298, Ilia Topuria shocked the world when he knocked out the champion, Alexander Volkanovski in the second round of their fight, and claimed the belt as his own.

As such, in a video shared on Instagram by Championship Rounds, Holloway stated, “I thought, this whole time in my mind that, if Topuria was to beat Volk in any way, Volk gets a direct rematch. Volk did enough work to earn himself a direct rematch…”

The Hawaiian also expressed his respect for Volkanovski’s achievements and dismissed his losses against Islam Makhachev as having no relevance for his position in the featherweight division due to him moving up a weight class to challenge the Dagestani lightweight champion.

As such, he confessed, “So, at the end of the day, I always thought if Topuria won, I’d still be waiting because Volk would get a direct rematch.” This prompted him to accept the Justin Gaethje fight as he perceived his chances of challenging for the featherweight title as slim in the near future. He also stated, “If I had it my way, I would’ve made the Islam fight in February against Justin, if they really wanted a title shot this and that.”

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Holloway’s revelations provide insight into the complexities of decision-making in the competitive world of mixed martial arts and as he prepares to face the dangerous Gaethje for the BMF title. Furthermore, he has found support from another notable figure in the UFC’s lightweight division!  

‘The Diamond’ reveals his pick for UFC 300 BMF title clash 

Dustin Poirier, the former interim UFC lightweight champ, has weighed in on the upcoming “BMF” title bout between Max Holloway and Justin Gaethje at UFC 300! Poirier, who has had the experience of facing both men in the cage, recently offered his expert insight into the highly anticipated clash.

In his appearance on The MMA Hour, Poirier stated, “If I could bet, I respect both guys, both fighters — I think I would put money on Max, just him being a dog.” While Holloway is moving up to 155 lbs for this clash, Poirier also revealed that contrary to popular opinion, he doesn’t believe ‘Blessed’ will be undersized in the matchup against Gaethje. He revealed, “Max is a big guy. Him and Gaethje probably walk around at the same weight. Max isn’t a small guy.”

Reflecting on his previous encounters with Holloway and Gaethje, Poirier also indicated that he leans towards Holloway’s striking prowess and durability as potential advantages in the upcoming bout. As the anticipation builds for the showdown between Holloway and Gaethje, Poirier’s insights add further intrigue to the highly anticipated clash. With expert opinions and contrasting styles in play, UFC 300 promises to deliver an electrifying spectacle for fight fans around the world.

Do you think Max Holloway will be able to add the BMF title to his accolades at UFC 300 with a win against Justin Gaethje? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 

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