BMF titleholder Max Holloway is ready to face grappling expert Charles Oliveira in their highly anticipated UFC 326 rematch, demonstrating confidence in both striking and ground skills. Set to headline a major event in 2026, this fight at the UFC Octagon highlights Holloway’s determination to challenge Oliveira’s famed Jiu-Jitsu abilities.
Background of the UFC 326 Rematch Between Holloway and Oliveira
Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira will meet again after their first encounter, where Holloway secured a TKO victory due to an injury Oliveira sustained early in the fight. This rematch is expected to deliver another thrilling contest between two skilled lightweights, with Oliveira aiming to rebound and earn another lightweight title opportunity. Known as one of the best submission grapplers in UFC history, Oliveira’s ground game is a critical element in their showdown.
Holloway’s Confidence in Grappling and Ground Defense
Addressing common opinions about the fight, Holloway recently told Stake that labeling the bout as simply striker versus grappler is misleading because mixed martial arts combine multiple disciplines. He highlighted Oliveira’s use of striking to set up grappling moves, challenging the notion that the fight’s outcome will be decided if it goes to the ground.
I find it funny, people say that this is a striker vs grappler matchup, but this is MMA,
Holloway said.
Charles is not a straight jiu-jitsu guy, he uses his strikes to set up his grappling. I’ve seen some people say, ‘If it goes to the ground, it’s over for Max,’ and I’m like, what?!
He emphasized his own skills in takedown defense and ground fighting, explaining his passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the extensive time he dedicates to training in this area. Holloway mentioned that he now spends more time on Jiu-Jitsu than on any other martial art and enjoys those sessions the most.
I am very confident in my takedown defense, but also my ground game. I’ve been training in jiu-jitsu for years, I love it. I have way more jiu-jitsu sessions now than any other aspect, and I actually like them the most.
He also defended his choice to train in a gi, which some critics consider unrealistic for MMA conditions.
I like training in the gi. I saw some things online with people saying why am I doing that, it’s unrealistic,
Holloway noted.
But if you can’t hold me down in a gi, then you’re not going to hold me down when I’m all sweaty in an MMA fight.
Implications and Anticipation for UFC 326 Clash
This rematch between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira promises to be one of the most exciting lightweight fights in 2026, combining striking exchanges with potentially intense grappling sequences. Holloway’s readiness to take on Oliveira’s ground game adds an unpredictable dimension to the event and raises expectations among fans eager to see who will dominate inside the Octagon. The outcome could influence future title shots and define the career trajectories of both fighters.
