Kevin Holland faced another tough setback at UFC 311, suffering a first-round submission loss to Reinier de Ridder. The defeat exposed lingering vulnerabilities in his grappling defense and raised questions about his ability to compete with the elite in the middleweight division. As Holland reflects on his performance, the focus now shifts to what lies ahead in his career.

What’s Next for Kevin Holland?

Despite his recent struggles, Kevin Holland remains a fan-favorite with a dynamic fighting style and undeniable potential. However, his path forward will require addressing key weaknesses and finding opportunities to rebuild his momentum. A rematch with Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson may be the perfect next step.

Kevin Holland vs. Stephen Thompson II: A Rematch to Settle the Score

Fans of striking battles are in for a treat as Kevin Holland and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson prepare for a highly anticipated rematch. Their first meeting in December 2022 delivered a thrilling stand-up war, with Thompson emerging victorious via TKO after Holland’s corner stopped the fight.

This rematch offers both fighters a chance at redemption. Holland will look to prove he’s learned from his mistakes, while Thompson aims to reaffirm his dominance in their rivalry.

This rematch promises an exciting stylistic clash. Holland’s unpredictability and power will be tested against Thompson’s elite precision and movement. For Holland, improving his distance management and grappling defense will be crucial, while Thompson will aim to exploit his technical striking advantage.

With both fighters looking to rebound from recent losses, this fight could be a turning point in their careers. Will Holland rise to the occasion, or will Thompson reaffirm his dominance?

Kevin Holland: Last 5 Fights

1. Loss vs. Reinier de Ridder – Submission (rear-naked choke) at UFC 311 (Jan 18, 2025)
* Grappling struggles led to a quick submission loss in Round 1.
2. Loss vs. Roman Dolidze – TKO (corner stoppage) at UFC 307 (Oct 5, 2024)
* Overwhelmed by relentless ground-and-pound from Dolidze.
3. Win vs. Michał Oleksiejczuk – Technical Submission (armbar) at UFC 302 (Jun 1, 2024)
* Showcased his evolving submission game in a dominant win.
4. Loss vs. Michael Page – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 299 (Mar 9, 2024)
* Outpointed by Page’s unorthodox and dynamic striking.
5. Loss vs. Jack Della Maddalena – Decision (split) at UFC Fight Night (Sep 16, 2023)
* A closely contested fight, with Holland narrowly losing on the scorecards.

Stephen Thompson: Last 5 Fights

1. Loss vs. Joaquin Buckley – KO (punch) at UFC 307 (Oct 5, 2024)
* Knocked out in a thrilling back-and-forth striking war.
2. Loss vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov – Submission (rear-naked choke) at UFC 296 (Dec 16, 2023)
* Grappling struggles led to a decisive submission defeat.
3. Win vs. Kevin Holland – TKO (corner stoppage) at UFC on ESPN (Dec 3, 2022)
* A striking masterclass capped off by a stoppage win.
4. Loss vs. Belal Muhammad – Decision (unanimous) at UFC Fight Night (Dec 18, 2021)
* Outwrestled by Muhammad over three rounds.
5. Loss vs. Gilbert Burns – Decision (unanimous) at UFC 264 (Jul 10, 2021)
* Grappling-heavy performance by Burns to neutralize Thompson’s striking.