Alexander Volkanovski always backs his former rivals. The featherweight champion has fought Max Holloway three times in the Octagon and recognizes a true championship pedigree. With UFC 326 approaching and Holloway is facing Charles Oliveira again. The Australian speaks bluntly about Holloway’s next move.
Huge stakes loom in Las Vegas with the BMF title on the line. Alexander Volkanovski eyes something even bigger ahead. If Holloway defeats Oliveira, the next step looks clear to him.
Alexander Volkanovski Says Max Holloway Has Earned His Title Shot After UFC 326
Coming off a turbulent few months across divisions. Alexander Volkanovski has been watching the lightweight picture closely. With the promotion juggling title timelines and fresh contenders, the 37-year-old champion thinks Max Holloway’s roadmap should be straightforward.
Speaking via X in a clip shared by Red Corner MMA, Volkanovski made his stance crystal clear about Holloway’s title credentials.
“After this fight, if he wins, how is he not fighting for the title? I believe he should have already fought for the title. I think he fights for the belt – that’s clear.”
Alexander Volkanovski pushes for Max Holloway’s title shot. He questions UFC’s stance on merit, not favoritism. Holloway rebuilt his momentum and headlines UFC 326 against Charles Oliveira for the BMF belt. Volkanovski says that resume demands a real title opportunity.
The storyline around UFC 326 keeps intensifying. Charles Oliveira isn’t buying the Hawaiian’s grappling threats. In an interview with Sherdog, the Brazilian dismissed Holloway’s talk of mixing it up on the mat.
“That’s definitely a bluff… But we trained for everything. My promise is to hunt him all the time,” said Charles Oliveira.
Oliveira, the UFC’s all-time submission leader, believes Holloway’s high-volume boxing leaves openings. He told Yahoo Sports that anyone throwing relentless combinations exposes themselves.
Volkanovski questions UFC’s stance and adds a wrinkle. If Holloway beats Oliveira again, eleven years after their UFC Fight Night 74 clash. Then denying him a title shot grows hard to justify.
Volkanovski dismisses these hot takes. MMA Junkie reported on March 2, 2026, that the featherweight champion will defend against Tom Aspinall amid backlash over eye surgery issues. The Australian urges fans to grasp retina damage and recovery protocols. This context shows Volkanovski means business when it comes to fairness.
UFC 326 stakes more than BMF bragging rights. It could decide if Holloway returns to undisputed title contention. A win would amplify Volkanovski’s doubts about the UFC’s decisions. A loss kills the debate instantly.
Did Holloway deserve that shot already? Alexander Volkanovski says yes. “It’s clear.”