Topuria Responds to Holloway’s BMF Title Criticism

Following Max Holloway’s remarks regarding Ilia Topuria purchasing a BMF title, Topuria retorted, questioning how Holloway could still claim the BMF title after being knocked out by him. This exchange has been widely reported by international media outlets.

Holloway recently defended the BMF title with a victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 318. He secured the win via a unanimous decision, with judges scoring the fight 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46.

In their previous encounter at 145 pounds, Topuria defeated Holloway by knockout. It’s important to note that the BMF title wasn’t officially at stake, as they were competing for the featherweight championship.

Topuria’s acquisition of a BMF belt and subsequent social media posts drew criticism from Holloway, notably during the UFC 318 post-fight press conference. Topuria has now addressed this criticism, arguing that Holloway’s knockout loss disqualifies him from holding the BMF title.

“That’s not my problem,” Topuria stated.

“I just knocked him out. How can you still be the BMF if I knocked you out? I pointed to the ground in the first 10 seconds. You ran away. Then I caught you anyways and I put you to sleep. And you’re still the BMF? How’s that?”

Topuria also mentioned potential future opponents, including Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett.

“I think they are going to try to push for Justin,” Topuria said.

“That’s what I think. Or maybe Paddy. There’s not even a conversation about Arman. … He needs to fight.”