UFC fighter Max Holloway Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Watch: UFC veteran Max Holloway knocked out for first time in career

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated Oct 26, 2024 6:35 PM ET

Max Holloway had fought 33 times in his professional MMA career prior to Saturday. He had never been knocked out until now.

Holloway lost to Ilia Topuria in the third round of their fight at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on Saturday as Topuria retained his UFC featherweight championship.

Topuria caught Holloway with a big right hand with 3:37 remaining in the third round. That sent Holloway back and on the defensive as Topuria continued to move forward with pressure. Topuria then caught Holloway with a big left hook that sent the veteran fighter to the mat. Topuria jumped on top of Holloway and continued to throw punches until the referee stepped in to call things.

THIS ANGLE OF ILIA TOPURIA’s KNOCKOUT IS INSANE!!#UFC308 #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/QLtXHCmAVO

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 26, 2024

The loss dropped Holloway to 26-8. He had lost seven times previously — six by decision and once by submission. This was his first defeat to come by knockout.

Credit to Topuria for putting Holloway on his heels with his striking. The 27-year-old featherweight is now 16-0 after successfully defending his title for the first time.

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

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