Max Holloway will likely not compete again this year due to an injury sustained during his recent fight with Dustin Poirier at UFC 318. The injury to his right hand has forced the former featherweight champion to postpone his return to the octagon for the remainder of 2025, disrupting his plans to remain a top contender in the lightweight division.
Holloway reveals hand injury from UFC 318 clash with Dustin Poirier
At UFC 318 last month, Max Holloway secured a victory over Dustin Poirier, halting what was expected to be Poirier’s retirement fight. However, Holloway has since disclosed he suffered a significant injury during the bout. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Holloway stressed the lingering pain in his hand after the fight, saying,
“Talk about him being as strong as a diamond, my right hand still hurts!”
—Max Holloway, UFC Fighter
This injury has put a halt to Holloway’s aspirations for a swift comeback, as he confirmed he would see a specialist soon for further evaluation. Although he has already consulted his doctor, the recovery outlook is uncertain, casting doubt over any potential fights before the year ends.
Impact on the lightweight title race and Holloway’s future plans
Before the injury, Holloway was eyeing a rapid return to contend for the lightweight title, positioning himself to challenge new champion Ilia Topuria. After losing his featherweight title to Topuria at UFC 308 last October, Holloway regained momentum with his win over Poirier, who had recently moved back to lightweight. This victory boosted Holloway’s status in the 155-pound division and reignited talks about possible rematches and future bouts.
Despite the enthusiasm around several potential fights at lightweight, including against Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje, Holloway remains uncertain about his near-term future. He stated,
“If you have hopes of me fighting before the end of the year, [that’s] probably not going to happen.”
—Max Holloway, UFC Fighter
Holloway expressed frustration with the ongoing rumors about his next opponent, particularly those doubting his place in the title conversation. He emphasized the challenges of recent matchups in the division, describing the situation as confusing to fans and analysts alike.
Top contenders and challenges in the lightweight division
Ilia Topuria, who ascended to the lightweight throne by defeating Charles Oliveira in June, remains the reigning champion. The Georgian-born fighter quickly rose in the UFC ranks after knocking out Oliveira and has been linked to several potential title defenses. Topuria has dismissed challenger Arman Tsarukyan, calling the latter unworthy of a shot at the belt, which leaves fighters like Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje in line for a title bout.
Gaethje has openly threatened retirement if he is denied a title shot, while UFC CEO Dana White is thought to favor a matchup between Topuria and Pimblett, given their history and rivalry. Holloway’s injury offers the UFC more flexibility in scheduling Topuria’s next fight while keeping the division competitive.
Holloway’s perspective on division dynamics and his career outlook
Holloway criticized the speculation surrounding the division, pointing out inconsistencies in how title shots are awarded. He referenced his own victories and the timing of other contenders’ fights to highlight the unpredictability of matchmaking at lightweight.
“Most of you guys don’t know what you’re talking about,”
Holloway remarked, illustrating his frustration with fans and pundits. He also commented on the complexity of facing familiar opponents, adding that discussions about him fighting Ilia again are unrealistic, considering their recent matchup.
He further clarified,
“Now, there’s a wrench in our plans because of this injury, but whatever, we get to see the way it plays out now.”
—Max Holloway, UFC Fighter
At 33 years old and based in Hawaii, Holloway remains a major figure in MMA, but this setback delays his ability to contest for honors in 2025.
What’s next for Max Holloway and the UFC lightweight class
With Holloway sidelined likely until early 2026, the UFC gains additional time to organize the lightweight division’s competitive landscape. Fighters like Pimblett, Gaethje, and Tsarukyan continue to position themselves for title opportunities, while Topuria prepares for his first defense of the belt.
Holloway’s injury highlights the physical risks fighters endure and the unpredictable nature of the sport that can alter championship trajectories suddenly. It remains to be seen how quickly the Hawaiian fighter will recover fully and when he will return to challenge again at the highest level.
Meanwhile, the lightweight division remains a focal point for UFC fans eager to see new rivalries unfold and champions tested in the months ahead.