The current UFC Featherweight champion, Ilia Topuria, has announced a new date for his first title defense while continuing online talks with potential challenger Max Holloway. “El Matador” won the featherweight title at UFC 298 by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski. Since this win, Topuria has suggested various dates and locations for his first title defense.
Topuria is aiming at UFC 308 for title defense
Topuria initially aimed for UFC 306 at the Sphere on September 14, but it looks like he will fight later this year. The Georgian fighter attended a press conference on July 3 for Topuria: Matador and expressed his desire to defend his title at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Spain. However, the event could be delayed due to the logistics involved for the UFC. During the press conference, Topuria turned his focus to UFC 308, which takes place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 26.
The featherweight champion accused Holloway of delaying the fight
Topuria accused Holloway of delaying the fight by making various excuses, hoping another challenger could step up. “They called me to tell Max Holloway was having family issues, he’s having trouble cutting weight, and he wants to fight in a higher weight class. Honestly, I don’t know. I have no idea.”
Holloway immediately responded online, disputing Topuria’s claims. In a tweet, Maz stated that Topuria is just making stuff. To this, Topuria responded by challenging him to pick a date and the terms of the fight. The featherweight champion further wrote that he is ready to turn off his lights anywhere and whenever.
To this Holloway responded to this by saying he has already talked to the UFC about the fight. “You need to check your numbers. Since you said it, the sphere by toe hold. See you soon,” wrote Holloway. The main event of UFC 306 at the Sphere is yet to be announced.
Also Read: Alex Pereira is aiming to defend his title next at UFC 305 in Australia
