After his latest loss to Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, Michael Chandler finds himself in need of a fresh challenge. While Chandler remains one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC lightweight division, his recent struggles against the top tier of competition raise the question: what’s next for him?
One intriguing possibility is a showdown with Max Holloway, one of the UFC’s most dynamic and versatile fighters. Holloway, a former UFC Featherweight Champion and current BMF Champion, is highly ranked in both the featherweight and lightweight divisions. His recent triumphs in the lightweight division, including a spectacular win over Justin Gaethje, have solidified him as a serious contender at 155 pounds.
A matchup between Chandler and Holloway would bring an exciting clash of styles, with Chandler’s explosive power and relentless aggression up against Holloway’s precision and exceptional cardio. This fight could be a turning point for both men, offering Chandler a chance to redeem himself and for Holloway to further cement his status as a true lightweight contender.
Max Holloway's last five fights:
1. Ilia Topuria – UFC 308 (October 26, 2024)
Result: Lost by KO (Punches) (Round 3, 1:34)
Holloway faced Topuria for the UFC Featherweight Championship. Despite a strong start, Holloway was eventually overwhelmed by Topuria's power, suffering a knockout in the third round.
2. Justin Gaethje – UFC 300 (April 13, 2024)
Result: Won by KO (Punch) (Round 5, 4:59)
In an exciting lightweight showdown, Holloway and Gaethje went back and forth. Holloway's resilience paid off as he landed a knockout punch in the final seconds of the fifth round, winning the symbolic "BMF" title.
3. Jung Chan-sung (The Korean Zombie) – UFC Fight Night: Holloway vs. The Korean Zombie (August 26, 2023)
Result: Won by KO (Punch) (Round 3, 0:23)
Holloway put on a dominant performance, stopping The Korean Zombie in the third round with a punch that earned him "Fight of the Night" honors.
4. Arnold Allen – UFC on ESPN: Holloway vs. Allen (April 15, 2023)
Result: Won by Unanimous Decision (5 Rounds)
Holloway defeated the rising contender Allen with a tactical display of striking, winning all five rounds and showcasing his elite level of skill and endurance.
5. Alexander Volkanovski – UFC 276 (July 2, 2022)
Result: Lost by Unanimous Decision (5 Rounds)
Holloway faced Volkanovski in a trilogy fight for the UFC Featherweight Championship. Despite a hard-fought contest, Holloway lost the decision, with Volkanovski's striking and control leading to a dominant performance.