The world of MMA is buzzing with the potential rise of a new welterweight champion, and it's an intriguing prospect that has many fans and experts alike captivated. Max Holloway, the Hawaiian fighter known as 'Blessed,' has made waves in the UFC, and his recent foray into the 170-pound division has sparked a debate about his future and dominance in the sport.
The Welterweight Experiment
Max Holloway's UFC 329 main event against Conor McGregor was a highly anticipated rematch, but it took an unexpected turn when McGregor suffered a serious knee injury early on. While Holloway emerged victorious, he expressed disappointment that he couldn't fully showcase his skills at welterweight. This setback, however, has not deterred one of his training partners, Jack Della Maddalena, from believing in Holloway's potential to dominate the division.
Training with Champions
Della Maddalena, an Australian fighter and former welterweight champion himself, had the unique opportunity to train with Holloway in preparation for his UFC 329 bout. Della Maddalena's presence in Holloway's camp adds a layer of credibility to his assessment of Holloway's abilities. Having dethroned Belal Muhammad in 2025, 'JDM' knows what it takes to excel at 170 pounds, and his endorsement of Holloway is a significant vote of confidence.
Dominance at 170?
In an interview with Full Send MMA, Della Maddalena praised Holloway's performance and potential. He believes that Holloway's skills and training could make him a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division. 'JDM' suggested that Holloway could 'clean up' the division if he chose to stay and focus on this weight class. This prediction is bold, considering the talent and depth of the welterweight roster.
The Makhachev Challenge
With talk of McGregor potentially challenging current champion Islam Makhachev, Holloway has also expressed interest in facing Makhachev if he successfully defends his title. This adds an intriguing layer to the welterweight landscape, as Holloway could be eyeing a title shot in the near future. The Dagestani champion's upcoming bout against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 will be a crucial indicator of Holloway's potential path.
A New Era?
The idea of Max Holloway dominating the welterweight division is an exciting prospect. It raises questions about the future of the weight class and the potential for a new era of dominance. With his skills and the backing of a former champion, Holloway could be the fighter to watch in the coming months. The UFC welterweight division is poised for an exciting period, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this evolving story.
