What can we expect from the UFC 308 championship fight and what other storylines should you keep an eye on?
The latest bouts featuring Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway have created a major build-up for the featherweight title fight headlining UFC 308 this Saturday in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
For Topuria, the anticipation stems from his remarkable February fight, where he claimed the belt from Alexander Volkanovski with a knockout that ended the Australian’s four-year reign at UFC 298. Holloway’s highlight came just two months later, delivering one of the most memorable knockouts in MMA history by sending Justin Gaethje to the mat in the final second of a brutal fifth-round showdown at UFC 300.
These accomplishments alone are enough to raise expectations for Topuria vs. Holloway. But a closer look reveals each fighter’s extraordinary journey to the top. Topuria (15-0) stands out as the only undefeated champion among the 11 titleholders in the UFC. Holloway (26-7), meanwhile, is the all-time UFC featherweight leader in several crucial metrics, including wins (20), finishes (11), KOs (9), significant strikes (2,892), and total strikes (3,096).
Of course, the Topuria vs. Holloway bout is only the headliner of a packed UFC 308 card, featuring highly anticipated fights like Khamzat Chimaev’s return and potential title contender bouts for Alex Pereira. With such a lineup, UFC’s annual stop in Abu Dhabi promises plenty of thrilling matchups to follow.
Can Topuria win a stand-up fight against Holloway?
Yes, we’re set to see a clash of volume versus power. Holloway’s classic jab-straight combination, which has helped him secure every major significant strike record in UFC history, will be essential for keeping distance and controlling the pace against the relentless champion.
Topuria, on the other hand, brings his own distinctive approach to the fight, showcasing a style he describes as “Mexican,” with precise body shots that have resulted in impressive knockouts, such as those over Damon Jackson, Jai Herbert, and his career-defining finish of Alexander Volkanovski to claim the title at UFC 298 in February.
For Topuria, the path to victory will likely be through seeking a knockout finish, as Holloway’s experience and durability in stand-up battles could give him an advantage in a drawn-out, 25-minute exchange.
Is it now or never for Khamzat Chimaev?
Chimaev’s dominant streak is finally set for a true test. Although his most recent victory came against former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, that fight took place at middleweight, a category where Usman is less experienced. Plus, Usman stepped in as a replacement with only ten days’ notice.
Now, Chimaev is set to face a seasoned middleweight and former champion, Robert Whittaker—a formidable force in any setting. If Chimaev can withstand Whittaker’s diverse and relentless skillset, he’ll solidify his claim to a title shot, a goal that fans widely believe is his destiny. Despite a slowed schedule, with only three fights over the last three years, Saturday’s matchup could be Chimaev’s step toward real momentum.
