This weekend, at the Octagon Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE, “El Matador” Ilia Topuria will make the first defense of his UFC featherweight championship against “Blessing” Max Holloway. With Topuria being labeled as “invincible,” this match poses a significant challenge, especially following his victory over Alex Volkanovski at UFC 298.
“Invincible” Ability
Topuria has been competing in MMA since April 2015. After 11 years of dedication, he has built an impressive career, boasting 15 wins (including 5 by KO and 8 by submission). His experience spans various promotions, including Mix Fight Events, CAGE, Cage Warriors, and Brave FC, before making his way to the UFC.
In his most recent match against “Old Man” Volkanovski, Topuria capitalized on Volkanovski’s time wasted in attempting to “fly up” to light heavyweight to fight Islam Makhachev, only to return to the familiar featherweight division—where he ultimately lost. The KO in the second round catapulted Topuria’s reputation to new heights.
This weekend, he faces Holloway at the Etihad Arena. Holloway, a former Featherweight Champion, secured his title with a dominant victory over “The Answer” Frankie Edgar at UFC 240 in July 2019. However, he has spent years in Volkanovski’s shadow, suffering three losses (all by decision).
Both Are Proficient Boxers
Topuria is a black belt in jiu-jitsu and an accomplished Greco-Roman wrestler, showcasing well-honed techniques and takedown skills. While he excels in grappling, his boxing remains his signature skill, often leading to KO victories while standing.
Standing at just 1.70 meters, Topuria is compact yet explosive, delivering powerful punches with devastating speed. His close-range attacks are particularly dangerous, as he commits his entire body to each strike, generating immense power. However, when he misses, he risks losing his balance and becoming vulnerable.
Despite being explosive, Topuria struggles when retreating. Nonetheless, few opponents have successfully forced him back. As he advances, he not only attacks effectively but also defends impressively, with strong blocking and shoulder defense skills typical of elite boxers.
In his previous match, Volkanovski aimed to break through Topuria’s offensive and defensive lines. Initially, he avoided punches but soon resorted to grappling. However, the dynamics shifted in the second half, teaching Volkanovski the importance of staying focused.
What Skills Does Holloway Bring?
Holloway, hailing from Hawaii, utilizes his height effectively at 1.80 meters (10 centimeters taller than Topuria). His long reach allows him to evade melee attacks while delivering blows that maintain distance before closing in again. Recently, Holloway has adapted his strategy, employing jabs and reacting defensively rather than initiating contact.
This tactical shift has proven effective; Holloway has absorbed fewer blows in his last three matches (3.55 strikes per minute, compared to 4.72 throughout his career). This reduction is not merely due to improved defense but reflects his strategic adaptability.
Topuria’s Backup Plan: Wrestling
Although Topuria has rarely showcased his wrestling skills since entering the UFC, he is well-versed in using them when necessary. In matches against Jay Herbert and Josh Emmett, Topuria effectively utilized wrestling to gain an advantage.
To transition Holloway from standing to ground combat, Topuria can implement classic single-leg and double-leg takedowns, leveraging the Greco-Roman techniques he has mastered. On the ground, Topuria displays a jiu-jitsu style, focusing on improving his position and creatively seeking submission opportunities rather than controlling his opponent tightly.
Holloway, too, has been hesitant to rely on wrestling in recent fights. However, to suggest he lacks takedown ability would be misleading. Even when grounded, he remains composed, often returning to a standing position with an impressive 84% success rate.
Holloway’s Advantages: High Strike Volume and Endurance
While Topuria possesses numerous strengths, Holloway is far from weak. His precise striking and rapid pace are hallmarks of his fighting style. In his match against Sean Strickland, Holloway threw an astonishing 3,378 strikes, significantly outpacing his opponent.
This striking volume allows Holloway to apply relentless pressure, demanding exceptional physical endurance. Despite his high attack rate, he has consistently completed all 25 minutes of competition (5 minutes per round). Apart from one submission loss, he has never been knocked out, indicating that defeating him requires a willingness to engage in a grueling battle for all five rounds.
Holloway’s physical strength and ability to control his rhythm provide a crucial advantage, especially in the final two rounds. Topuria must remain vigilant as they approach the fight’s climax!
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