Max Holloway Injury Delays Return,Possibly Until 2026
Former UFC Featherweight Champion Max Holloway is facing a potentially extended recovery period following an injury sustained during his July 20th victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 in New Orleans,Louisiana.The injury, affecting his right hand, will likely sideline him for the remainder of 2025.
Holloway revealed the extent of the injury in a recent video posted to his official YouTube channel. He stated, “My right hand still hurts… If you have hopes of me fighting before the end of the year, it’s probably not gonna happen.” He is scheduled to consult with a specialist this week, following an initial assessment by his doctor, but initial indications are not promising for a swift return.
The fight against poirier, held at the Smoothie king Center in New Orleans, was the third and final installment of their highly anticipated trilogy. Holloway secured a unanimous decision victory (49-46, 49-46, 49-46) over Poirier, avenging his prior losses. The win marked Holloway’s 17th victory in the UFC’s featherweight division, extending his record as the division’s most prolific winner.
Holloway (25-7 MMA, 19-7 UFC) has been a mainstay of the UFC’s featherweight division since his debut in 2012. He previously held the UFC Featherweight Championship twice, with notable defenses against José Aldo (twice) and Brian Ortega. His career has been characterized by a high-volume striking style and extraordinary cardio.
Poirier, following the loss, announced his retirement from mixed martial arts inside the Octagon. The fight was a homecoming for Poirier, a Louisiana native.
The nature of Holloway’s injury has not been publicly disclosed beyond being to his right hand. The delay adds further uncertainty to the UFC’s featherweight title picture, currently held by Ilia Topuria, who defeated Alexander Volkanovski in February 2024.
