Max Holloway eyeing Islam Makhachev’s lightweight title after getting past Justin Gaethje at UFC 300

Max Holloway could receive a top-five ranking if he can defeat Justin Gaethje.

Max Holloway eyeing Islam Makhachev’s lightweight title after getting past Justin Gaethje at UFC 300

Max Holloway plans to fight for the lightweight title against Islam Makhachev (via Imago)

UFC 300 is approaching fast, with the fate of multiple divisions hanging in the balance. The lightweight division has the deepest implications. The fate of the fighters at UFC 300 would probably decide the next title contender for Islam Makhachev. Max Holloway is firmly set on capturing the UFC’s lightweight title. This is if he can defeat Justin Gaethje at the highly anticipated UFC 300 PPV. 

The Hawaiian fan-favorite is slated to face ‘The Highlight’ in a highly-anticipated BMF title bout in Las Vegas. Holloway hasn’t shied away from discussing his aspirations beyond that. ‘Blessed’ acknowledged that a victory over the hard-hitting contender could propel him into the lightweight division’s top echelons.

First things first is Gaethje, but if I get my hand raised, there's a lot of fights that can be there for us – one of them being the [155-pound] champ, which I think would be a fun one. 
Max Holloway via Kevin Iole
YouTube video

Holloway’s words hinted at a potential clash with reigning lightweight king Islam Makhachev. This wouldn’t be Holloway’s first foray into the lightweight division. He faced Dustin Poirier in a bid for the interim lightweight title in 2019. Holloway seemed determined to make the most of this opportunity after failing against Poirier the last time. Makhachev had recently stated that the BMF title was ‘useless.’

FS Video

The battle of the ‘best strikers‘ could impact the lightweight title picture. As of now, Gaethje has a shot at the lightweight gold. However, the Hawaiian fighter likely snatches Gaethje’s ranking with a win. If so, Holloway instantly becomes a ranked fighter in the featherweight and lightweight divisions. It also paves the way for Holloway to achieve his longtime dream of winning two titles in the UFC.

Max Holloway highlights his favorite Justin Gaethje moment

In a delightful display of fandom, Max Holloway recently unveiled his all-time favorite Justin Gaethje moment within the iconic Octagon. Holloway couldn’t help but reminisce about the time Gaethje left an indelible mark on the MMA world. 

Max Holloway and Justin Gaethje
Max Holloway and Justin Gaethje (via Imago)

Holloway recounted Gaethje’s unforgettable UFC debut against Michael Johnson back in 2017. His eyes lit up with excitement as he talked about Gaethje’s electric performance. 

I think his debut [against Michael Johnson]. I was ringside. It was crazy! That's when they used to do two or three fights in a week…being there, he got hurt early, and he kept coming through like he always does. This guy was a zombie, got the finish, and I think that was the most memorable fight for me.
Max Holloway via Kevin Iole

Gaethje certainly made a statement in that debut bout. The former WSOF champion refused to back down despite sustaining early damage. At UFC 300, Holloway has the chance to have a memorable outing with Gaethje. Both fighters don’t believe in taking a step back or have quit in any of their previous fights. As such, the BMF title fight could become an all-time classic in the most important UFC PPV so far.

In case you missed it: