Max Holloway Defends BMF Belt Against Charles Oliveira at UFC 326

The UFC 326 event, scheduled for this weekend, will offer one of the most anticipated fights of the year – a bout for the BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) belt between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira. Holloway, the current titleholder who won it last year at UFC 300, will defend it for the first time. His opponent will be former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira, known for his deadly jiu-jitsu and the record for the most submissions in the organization's history. At stake is not only the title but also a position in the UFC hierarchy and a potential chance to fight for the official championship in the appropriate weight class. Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the world's largest mixed martial arts (MMA) organization, founded in 1993. The BMF belt was introduced in 2019 as an honorary distinction for the fighter with the toughest, most spectacular style, paying homage to the iconic figure Nate Diaz. The first champion was Jorge Masvidal. Before the fight, Charles Oliveira in an interview for the Spanish portal 20 minutos left no doubt about his confidence. The Brazilian stated: „Creo firmemente en el poder que tengo para noquear a Holloway. Estoy seguro de que seré el próximo campeón BMF.” (I firmly believe in the power I have to knock out Holloway. I am sure I will be the next BMF champion.) — Charles Oliveira This statement is interesting because Oliveira is known primarily for submission victories, not knockouts. His opponent, Max Holloway, is considered one of the most effective strikers in the sport's history, holding the UFC record for significant strikes landed. The Polish Przegląd Sportowy highlights the betting aspect, quoting odds for a Holloway victory at 15.00, making him the clear favorite in the eyes of betting specialists. The French daily Le Parisien focuses on the practical side of the event for fans, reporting on a "good plan" to watch the fight during the night from Saturday to Sunday Polish time. The article indicates available platforms and streaming services offering the live broadcast. Meanwhile, the British BBC quotes Holloway's statement about his characteristic "point-down" gesture (pointing a finger downwards), which he uses after winning fights. Holloway admitted that his coaches don't like the gesture, but for him it is an expression of authenticity and makes him feel "alive". This small detail highlights the psychological aspect of preparations and the champion's confidence. A key element of the bout will be the clash of styles. Holloway, a typical striker, will aim to keep the confrontation at a distance, showering his opponent with strikes. Oliveira, a ground master, will try to take the fight to the mat, where his jiu-jitsu skills could prove decisive. The New York Times describes this clash as a "Hall of Fame-level duel," emphasizing its historic potential and significance for the sport. The winner will not only gain the prestigious BMF belt but also solidify their position as one of the organization's top fighters, opening a path to fights for the official world championship.