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Steve Garcia Stuns David Onama, Calls Out Max Holloway for BMF Showdown

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Nov 2, 2025 8:38 PM ET

Steve Garcia made a thunderous statement in his first UFC main event and he did it in emphatic fashion. The Albuquerque native lived up to his “Mean Machine” moniker on Saturday night, finishing David Onama via first-round TKO (3:34) in the main event of UFC Fight Night 263. The performance marked Garcia’s fourth straight win and established him as one of the featherweight division’s most dangerous rising contenders.

Relentless Pressure, Ruthless Precision

From the opening bell, Garcia (19–5 MMA, 8–2 UFC) pushed forward with unrelenting aggression. He cut off the cage and fired pinpoint combinations that immediately put Onama (14–3 MMA, 6–3 UFC) on the defensive.

Onama attempted to circle out and counter, but Garcia’s pressure was suffocating. Then came the moment that changed everything a devastating left hand that sent Onama crashing to the mat.

Though Onama managed to stand, Garcia didn’t give him an inch of space. He followed up with a barrage of power punches until referee Herb Dean had seen enough, waving off the bout as Onama fell again under the assault.

Proving he’s a top contender!

Last night, Steve Garcia earned his 7th straight victory at #UFCVegas110! pic.twitter.com/3LVMaLiZRa

— UFC (@ufc) November 2, 2025

“I Want the Rocky Balboa Story”

After the victory, Garcia was quick to seize the microphone and the moment.

“I’m gonna throw a little curveball in there,” Garcia told Daniel Cormier in the post-fight interview. “I want the Rocky Balboa story. I want the one with Max Holloway, the BMF title, man.”

The callout immediately drew cheers from the crowd and attention across social media. Holloway, the former UFC featherweight champion and current BMF titleholder, has yet to respond publicly but Garcia’s bold challenge sent a clear message: he’s ready for the elite.

What’s Next for “Mean Machine”?

Garcia has quietly built an impressive résumé at 145 pounds. His last three wins before Onama all by knockout showcased his heavy hands and improving defensive composure. With Saturday’s victory, he’s now likely to break into the top 10 of the featherweight rankings and could find himself in a high-profile matchup by early 2026.

Whether it’s a title eliminator or the dream BMF clash he’s calling for, Steve Garcia has made his case and made sure everyone in the division took notice.

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

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