Max Holloway Bio
Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway, born December 4, 1991, is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is a former UFC Featherweight Champion and currently holds the symbolic UFC “BMF” title. Holloway is widely regarded as one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history and is ranked #3 in the UFC lightweight rankings and #10 in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings as of late 2025.
Early Life and Background
Max Holloway was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and raised in Waianae, a community known for its tough environment. He is of Native Hawaiian and Samoan descent. Holloway faced a challenging upbringing, with his parents struggling with drug addiction and his father leaving when Max was about 11 years old. Despite these hardships, he found an outlet in martial arts, beginning kickboxing training at age 15 with Team Ruthless. Holloway graduated from Waianae High School in 2010.
Path to MMA
Holloway began his professional mixed martial arts career in 2010. Early on, he gained attention for his dynamic striking, incorporating flying and spinning kicks, knees, and elbows. By age 19, he had compiled an undefeated 4–0 record and was recognized as a top featherweight prospect. His early success included winning the lightweight title for the Hawaii-based X-1 promotion and defeating notable veterans, which paved the way for his entry into the UFC.
Max Holloway Career
Early Career (2010–2012)
Holloway made his UFC debut in February 2012 as the youngest fighter on the roster, stepping in as an injury replacement. Although he lost his first fight, he quickly rebounded with a series of wins including a TKO victory over Justin Lawrence and a split decision over Leonard Garcia. These performances established him as a rising talent in the featherweight division.
UFC Featherweight Breakthrough (2012–2019)
Holloway’s breakthrough came as he developed into a top contender, known for his volume striking and resilience. He earned multiple Performance of the Night bonuses and defeated several top fighters, including Cub Swanson and Charles Oliveira. In 2016, he won the interim UFC Featherweight Championship by defeating Anthony Pettis. Holloway then unified the featherweight title by defeating José Aldo in 2017. He successfully defended the belt multiple times against elite opponents such as Frankie Edgar and Brian Ortega, setting records for significant strikes landed in fights.
Lightweight Transition and Recent Career (2019–Present)
After losing the featherweight title to Alexander Volkanovski in 2019, Holloway moved up to lightweight. He challenged for the interim lightweight title but lost a close fight to Dustin Poirier. Holloway returned to featherweight briefly before permanently moving to lightweight in 2025. In April 2024, he won the symbolic UFC “BMF” title by knocking out Justin Gaethje in a dramatic finish. Holloway defended the BMF belt against Poirier in July 2025, winning by unanimous decision. He continues to compete at a high level despite recent injuries.
Driving Style and Strengths
Max Holloway is known for his relentless pace, high-volume striking, and exceptional cardio. His ability to maintain pressure and deliver precise combinations makes him a formidable opponent. Holloway’s striking craft is complemented by his brown belt rank in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, adding grappling skills to his arsenal. His partnership with Gracie Technics Legacy Muay Thai has been integral to his development.
Notable Events and Milestones
Holloway holds several UFC records for significant strikes landed in a single fight and round. His knockout of Justin Gaethje for the BMF title is considered one of the most spectacular finishes in UFC history. He has earned multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night awards, highlighting his exciting fighting style and resilience.
Max Holloway Career Wins
Throughout his career, Max Holloway has amassed 27 wins in 35 professional MMA bouts. His victories span multiple weight classes and include championship titles and high-profile wins against top-ranked opponents.
UFC Highlights
Holloway secured his first UFC win in 2012 and quickly rose through the ranks. He captured the interim featherweight title in 2016 and unified it in 2017. Holloway defended the featherweight championship three times before moving to lightweight. His recent victory for the UFC “BMF” title in 2024 added a unique accolade to his career.
Other Wins & Performances
Before joining the UFC, Holloway won the lightweight title in the Hawaii-based X-1 promotion and compiled an undefeated record as a young prospect. His early career victories helped establish his reputation as a dynamic and skilled fighter.
Max Holloway Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Holloway’s family background includes Native Hawaiian and Samoan heritage. Despite early family challenges, he has built a successful career through dedication and perseverance.
Personal Life
Max Holloway is married to Alessa Quizon since April 2022. He resides in Waianae, Hawaii. Previously, he was married to Kaimana Pa’aluhi, with whom he has one son. Holloway maintains a private personal life focused on family and training.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Max Holloway solidified his status in the lightweight division by defending the symbolic UFC “BMF” title against Dustin Poirier in what was Poirier’s retirement bout. Despite a hand injury sustained during the fight, Holloway remains a top contender. His performances continue to showcase his striking prowess and resilience, with expectations high for his return to competition once recovered. Holloway’s partnership with Gracie Technics Legacy Muay Thai and his strategic approach position him well for continued success in the UFC.