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Holly Holm’s Surprising Move Following GFL Fallout

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Apr 17, 2025 1:05 PM ET

When a major fight promotion cancels events, it doesn’t just affect the venue and ticket holders—it leaves fighters in limbo, training camps unfinished, and careers momentarily paused. That’s exactly what happened when the Global Fight League (GFL) canceled its planned debut cards in Los Angeles. Fighters from around the world, including some with major resumes, were suddenly left without a fight date or paycheck. One of those fighters may already be looking ahead to a different arena entirely.

According to MMA reporter Damon Martin , former UFC bantamweight champion Holly Holm is now exploring a return to her boxing roots. Holm had signed with GFL after securing her release from the UFC and was scheduled to face fellow veteran Julia Budd on one of the now-canceled cards. Her manager, Lenny Fresquez, confirmed that Holm is 'pursuing options for a potential return to boxing'—a move that would mark a full-circle moment in her storied combat sports career.

Ex-UFC champ Holly Holm is currently pursuing options for a potential return to boxing, per her manager Lenny Fresquez.

Holm got her release from UFC and she ended up signing with GFL where she was scheduled to face Julia Budd on one of the cards that was just cancelled.
— Damon Martin (@DamonMartin) April 16, 2025

Holm is one of the most decorated female boxers of all time, holding multiple world titles across three weight classes before making her transition to MMA. She was widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world and has recently spoken about how much she misses the sweet science. Interestingly, she never fought at 135 pounds in boxing—making that weight class a potential goal if she returns. Her striking-heavy style has remained rooted in her boxing foundation, even during her UFC tenure.

Just above 135 pounds, there are also potential blockbuster matchups that could offer major financial opportunities—fights against stars like Katie Taylor, Amanda Serrano, and others could draw significant attention if Holm decides to return to the ring at a catchweight or full lightweight limit.

Now, with the GFL cancellation leaving a void, Holm could be lacing up the gloves once more.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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