The featherweight division is about to heat up in the desert sands of Abu Dhabi as two of the most exciting fighters are set to clash. Newly crowned champion Ilia Topuria is set to defend his belt against Max Holloway. The fight is reportedly targeted for UFC 308 in the United Arab Emirates. This matchup has fight enthusiasts buzzing with excitement.
MARCA MMA initially posted this news of this fight on Instagram. Topuria, the undefeated Spanish-Georgian fighter, shocked the world earlier this year. He dethroned Alexander Volkanovski with a stunning knockout at UFC 298. Now, he faces his first title defense against a true legend of the sport.
Holloway is no stranger to championship gold. The Hawaiian held the featherweight title from 2017 to 2019. He’s been on a tear lately, winning his last three fights in impressive fashion. His last fight against Justin Gaethje won him the BMF title and $600,000 in bonuses.
The two fighters reportedly reached a verbal agreement. However, the contracts have yet to be signed. The Abu Dhabi card was initially reserved for Islam Makhachev’s next title defense. But his injury rumors have shifted the tide, and now, Holloway and Topuria will duke it out at UFC 308.
Dana White Reveals Unavailability Of Venues In Spain For Delay In UFC Arrival
Spanish fans are highly anticipating the UFC’s coming to their country since they have a champion, Ilia Topuria, of their own now. But apparently, this is not possible for now, as UFC CEO Dana White revealed. He recently shed light on a peculiar post-pandemic problem. It’s not about fighters or contracts but rather about finding a place to fight.
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White recently addressed the challenges of booking a UFC event in Spain. The issue was not a lack of interest or suitable fighters. Surprisingly, there is a shortage of available venues. White revealed that there were so many events backed up in Spain after COVID that all their venues were booked.
White isn’t opposed to the idea of a Spanish UFC card. In fact, he seems quite enthusiastic about it. He promised the fans that they would do a fight card there when the venues opened up. As for now, their champion, Ilia Topuria, will have to make do in the arid desert of Abu Dhabi. So, UFC fans, mark your calendars for October 26th. A thrilling title bout is on the horizon.
Also Read: UFC Rumors: Max Holloway Verifies Another Appearance In 2024 And Gets Honest About UFC 307
