‘Stupid injury’ sidelines Max Holloway until 2026 — ‘Things are not looking up for me’

Ilia Topuria has one less contender to worry about for his first lightweight title defense.

That’s because No. 4-ranked Max Holloway, who broke into the Top 5 by retiring Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 last month in New Orleans, is still dealing with a hand injury and is unlikely to make his Octagon return until some point in early 2026.

“My right hand still hurts,” Holloway said on YouTube. “If you have hopes of me fighting before the end of the year it’s probably not gonna happen. I’m seeing a specialist some time this week and I already met with my doctor.”

current lightweight rankings and book Arman Tsarukyan, or chase the more marketable fight featuring the “super good” Paddy Pimblett.

A decision on Topuria’s next fight is expected in the coming weeks, if not sooner.