After dominating the featherweight division for three years, Max Holloway’s title reign came to a shocking end at UFC 245.
Ever since he suffered a devastating loss to Conor McGregor at UFC Fight Night Boston, the 28-year-old has building his name within the featherweight division and after scoring strong wins over fighters such as Anthony Pettis, Jeremy Stephens, and Cub Swanson, Max Holloway finally captured the UFC Featherweight title from Jose Aldo at UFC 212.
At this point in his career, Holloway was already considered one of the best featherweights to step inside the ring, so when Alexander Volkanovski pulled out the upset win over the Hawaii native then people finally gave the newly crowned champ the respect that he deserves.
However, the 31-year-old told TMZ Sports that he wants to fight and beat Max Holloway again, as Volkanovski believes defeating one of the greatest featherweights of all time twice will finally gain respect amongst the remaining doubters (Transcript courtesy of mmafighting.com).
“Obviously that’s what UFC wants, Dana White’s saying that’s what he wants, and I think I want it,” Volkanovski said. “I want that fight, because there’s no clear No. 1 contenders, and I just think that he’s a great champion. For me, the biggest fight in my career right now to solidify myself as the best featherweight of all-time, and one of the greatest of all-time. I go and take out Max twice in [his] prime, people are gonna give me that respect I deserve.”
To Volkanovski, this isn’t personal as the fighter has alot of respect for the former UFC Featherweight Champion; however, he promises that the same results from UFC 245 will take place should a rematch happen:
“Nothing but respect [to Max],” Volkanovski said. “You’re the man and you’re well-loved because of that. I feel I’m the same way. We’re both respectful. But, you really want this fight? I just done it five rounds and I guarantee you it ain’t gonna change. I’m either finishing it or I’m winning the exact same way. I know you’re durable, but I reckon I can put you away.”