The UFC featherweight division is creating much buzz in the MMA community these days. This is partly due to the anticipation of who would be the next in line for the title shot. Ilia Topuria has finally squashed any doubt about who he’ll defend his title against next. Topuria says Max Holloway will get the first crack at the undefeated Spanish sensation.
Ilia Topuria was recently interviewed on El Hormiguero. He confirmed Max Holloway as his first opponent after the title win. However, in confirming the long-awaited booking against “Blessed,” Topuria also issued a downright chilling warning to his upcoming opponent.
Yes, it will be Holloway. It has been difficult for [him] to accept the challenge, but it’s clear he’s next…Wherever, whenever, at whatever weight, you choose if you want me to finish you, to knock you out. One very important thing: don’t forget the pillow for when you go to sleep.
Ilia Topuria via El Hormiguero
Topuria reiterated his vow to be the first man to sleep Holloway. This is a feat that no one has achieved before, and many have tried. Whether this fight will put Holloway’s BMF belt on the line remains a mystery. Topuria was adamant about putting both belts on the line for the fight. Fight fans would have to wait for the official news about this.
Ilia Topuria confirms that Max Holloway will be his next opponent and sends him a message:
“So wherever, whenever, at whatever weight, you choose if you want me to finish you, to knock you out.
One very important thing, don’t forget the pillow for when you go to sleep.” 🥶
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 1, 2024
The two have unfinished business. This dates back to when Topuria leapfrogged the former long-reigning 145lb king for a shot at Alexander Volkanovski‘s title. Holloway clearly took that personally, leading to the two trading tons of social media barbs and insults in recent months. Topuria and Holloway could face each other in one of the biggest fights of the year as tensions rapidly escalate.
Alexander Volkanovski denies getting offered a title shot
Rumors were recently circulating that Topuria had denied Alexander Volkanovski the rematch after Topuria knocked Volkanovski out at UFC 298. The Aussie fighter denied rumors of receiving offers for a rematch at the upcoming UFC 305 event in Australia. Earlier, Topuria denied turning down the rematch against Volkanovski.
Alexander Volkanovski denies rematch rumors (via YouTube)MainEvent TV recently interviewed Volkanovski. He confirmed that UFC did not actually offer him a rematch against Ilia Topuria. The Australian star made it clear those reports were merely wishful thinking.
Nothing was ever bought to me as in if I wanted to fight… I have talked to UFC and made it clear that I want to fight later in the year and give myself a bit of a break.
Alexander Volkanovski via MainEvent TV
🚨 Alexander Volkanovski denies ever being offered to fight Ilia Topuria in Perth at #UFC305 in August.
Volk plans to wait until at least October before looking to reclaim his UFC featherweight belt, against Ilia Topuria or whoever else holds the belt by then.
(via.… pic.twitter.com/qQ5991vAEr
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 1, 2024
Volkanovski’s admission put a damper on hopes that UFC 305 could host the fan-favorite local fighter. The former champ seemed content to watch the new king defend his title once before coming for it. Whenever they inevitably book their rematch, fight fans can be sure Volkanovski will have plenty of motivation to recapture the belt.
