UPDATE: A highly anticipated lightweight BMF title fight between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira is officially set to headline UFC 326 on March 7, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The promotion announced this thrilling matchup just moments ago, igniting excitement among MMA fans worldwide.
This clash is not just about the title; it carries significant implications for the lightweight division. Holloway, with a record of 27-8, captured the BMF title in an electrifying last-second knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 in April 2024. He then became the first BMF champion to successfully defend the belt by defeating Dustin Poirier in July. Currently, Holloway and Oliveira are ranked Nos. 2 and 3 in the division, respectively, making this bout critical for future title contention.
The stakes are even higher considering that this matchup is a rematch from their 2015 encounter at featherweight, where Holloway won via TKO after Oliveira suffered a freak neck injury. “We have some unfinished business from 11 years ago,” Holloway stated. “Now, we get to go out there and figure it out. [After that], I want to get an undisputed title.”
The UFC’s lightweight division is experiencing a unique transition, with defending champion Ilia Topuria announcing plans to take time off at the start of 2026 for personal reasons. This development has prompted the UFC to schedule an interim title fight between Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, which will headline UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas.
As the fight date approaches, anticipation is building. Fans are eager to see whether Holloway can continue his reign or if Oliveira will reclaim his position among the elite. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
