What’s next for Max Holloway after UFC 326 Loss? several options, but one stands out

Holloway has gone 2-2 since moving up to lightweight, and he didn’t look bad in the defeat to Charles Oliveira at UFC 326.

Despite taking a step back with this loss, Holloway still has plenty of options available to him at 155 pounds. He currently sits fourth in the lightweight rankings and isn’t expected to drop much after this defeat.

The one spot below him belongs to Benoit Saint-Denis, who has put together an impressive run of four straight finishes since losing to Renato Moicano. ‘God of War’ is ready for another high-profile bout, and a win over Holloway could move him closer to a title shot.

Another option could be Dan Hooker, who recently returned with a knockout win over Arman Tsarukyan at UFC Perth. A matchup between Holloway and ‘Hangman’ would likely be a fan-friendly stand-up battle between two elite strikers.

Paddy Pimblett’s name also makes sense right now despite his recent loss by unanimous decision against Justin Gaethje. Despite that setback, Pimblett showed glimpses of why he remains an exciting figure in UK MMA, especially against someone like Holloway who brings relentless pace and pressure.

Of course, there are still calls from fans for a rematch between ‘Blessed’ and Conor McGregor as both look for their next moves after disappointing results last time out.