The UFC 308 event at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi was one of the most-highly anticipated event of 2024 and it delivered on all counts. The event was highlighted by spectacular performances by Ilia Topuria, Khamzat Chimaev, and Shara Magomedov. Ilia Topuria became the first UFC fighter to knock out Max Holloway in the UFC.
Ilia Topuria Makes His Title Defense in Style
The featherweight champion Ilia Topuria made a statement by being the first UFC fighter to knockout Max Holloway in his first title defense. He knocked out Max Holloway in the third round of the UFC 308 main event.
Topuria won the title when he knocked out Alexander Volkanoski in February, and today, he added another all time great to his perfect resume. According to the UFC.Com, As promised, both fighters called for a slugfest as the bout began, but then the fight started at long range, Holloway busy as Topuria pressured, then took the challenger down twice. Upon rising, Topuria landed a hard right hand and started mixing kicks in. Holloway kept firing, though, landing more and more as the round progressed.
Topuria’s power shots began to find their mark with more frequency in round two, and while they got Holloway’s attention, he didn’t stray from his gameplan or lower his work rate, as he continued to outwork the champion.
In the second minute of round three, a right hand hurt Holloway, and Topuria unleashed his arsenal on the Hawaiian. Holloway initially weathered the storm, but then a left hand sent him hard to the canvas, with referee Marc Goddard halting the fight moments later at 1:34 of the third frame.
With the win, Topuria moves to 16-0. Holloway falls to 26-8.
Ilia Topuria Say Max Holloway Was a Great Example for the Generation
After his Victory at UFC 308, Ilia Topuria said that Max Holloway has been a great example for the generation and according to him, “All the credit to Max Holloway…. I represent now the new generation.” Many have compared Ilia’s cockiness to Conor McGregor but unlike the latter he is supporting his words by actions thereby reinforcing his post-press statements.
Ilia Topuria Unofficially Becomes the Baddest MotherF** in the UFC
In retaining his featherweight title, he not only retains his status as UFC featherweight champion, but he also won a new title the BMF title from Max Holloway who is the BMF champion. While the BMF title was not on the line, Topuria does not care either way and he sees himself as a two-belt title holder.
“I never understand why they didn’t put the BMF title on the line,” Topuria told reporters at the UFC 308 post-fight press conference. “It has to be on the line since the first day. But hey, don’t want to make it official? I’m going to make it official by myself.
“Now I’m the new ‘Baddest Motherf*ker’ world champion.”
