Max Holloway, the reigning UFC BMF champion, has firmly stated that bare-knuckle fighting is not on his radar, even as some UFC legends have embraced the sport after leaving the Octagon.
“I ain’t ever going to bare-knuckle fighting, that’s the most stupidest thing ever in the world, when I’m retired, I’m retired,” Holloway said during a recent livestream.
“I’ll maybe do a boxing match but not bare-knuckle man, that’s f*king ridiculous, people that do that, it’s next level.
People that do [Power] Slap, bare-knuckle, bro, you guys are crazy. Like, the slap one is so nuts, like why would I wanna stand there and just be like, ‘Yeah you can slap me, I slap you’, that’s f*king crazy.”
Max Holloway is NOT interested in fighting Bare Knuckle 😭
“That’s the most stupidest thing ever in the world. When I’m retired, I’m retired bro.”
🎥 @BlessedMMA pic.twitter.com/UQpPwmABxL
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 20, 2025
BKFC and UFC Legends: Why Holloway Won’t Follow
Several high-profile UFC veterans, including Eddie Alvarez, Mike Perry, and Jeremy Stephens, have turned to BKFC after retiring from MMA. The promotion gained popularity particularly after Conor McGregor became a co-owner, offering fighters a new platform to stay in the spotlight.
Holloway, however, dismisses the trend entirely, calling BKFC “the stupidest thing ever” and making it clear he won’t follow other retired fighters into bare-knuckle competitions.
Holloway’s last bout took place in July against Dustin Poirier, marking Poirier’s retirement fight. Holloway successfully defended his BMF title and has since received a number of callouts, including a potential rematch with Charles Oliveira, which could be one of the most exciting fights in the 155-pound division.
Even as he approaches the later stages of his career, Holloway remains focused on MMA. His dedication, discipline, and selective approach to fights show that he intends to finish his career on his own terms.
Fans are eager to see Holloway’s next opponent. Considering his recent performances and the trajectory of other top featherweight and lightweight contenders, a fight against Charles Oliveira seems likely.
While bare-knuckle and slap competitions continue to attract attention in combat sports, Holloway remains committed to the Octagon, ensuring his legacy will be defined by MMA alone.
