UFC

UFC 326: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2 – A Rematch Years in the Making

This Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira will finally settle their score in a highly anticipated rematch for the BMF title. The event, UFC 326, promises a night of thrilling action, with several compelling fights on the card.

The Main Event: A Tale of Two Journeys

Holloway, currently ranked #4 in the UFC Lightweight division, faces Oliveira, ranked #5. Their first encounter in 2015 ended abruptly due to an injury to Oliveira less than two minutes into the fight. Both fighters have evolved significantly since then, maintaining relevance at the elite level and now competing for both the BMF title and a crucial position in the lightweight division.

Holloway’s Resurgence at Lightweight

Holloway is a -220 favorite heading into the fight. He has demonstrated impressive striking power and volume, recently knocking out Justin Gaethje. This suggests a successful transition and adaptation to the lightweight division.

Oliveira’s Path to Redemption

Oliveira, the slight underdog at +170, is known for his explosive finishes and submission expertise. However, he faces a durable opponent in Holloway, who defends takedowns at a rate exceeding 80%.

Beyond the Main Event: Key Co-Main and Preliminary Fights

UFC 326 isn’t just about Holloway vs. Oliveira. The co-main event features a pivotal middleweight clash between Caio Borralho and Reinier de Ridder, both looking to rebound from recent losses and re-enter the title contention picture.

Borralho vs. De Ridder: A Middleweight Showdown

Borralho is favored at -278, while de Ridder stands at +225. This fight will test both fighters’ ability to overcome setbacks and regain momentum in the 185-pound division.

Rising Stars and Veteran Clashes

The undercard features exciting matchups, including Raul Rosas Jr. Vs. Rob Font in the bantamweight division, and Drew Dober vs. Michael Johnson in a lightweight bout. These fights offer opportunities for rising stars to make a name for themselves and for veterans to prove their continued relevance.

UFC 326 Fight Card at a Glance

• Main Event: Max Holloway (-220) vs. Charles Oliveira (+170) – Lightweight (BMF Title)
• Co-Main Event: Caio Borralho (-278) vs. Reinier de Ridder (+225) – Middleweight
• Bantamweight: Raul Rosas Jr. (-238) vs. Rob Font (+195)
• Lightweight: Michael Johnson (-122) vs. Drew Dober (+102)
• Middleweight: Gregory Rodrigues (-185) vs. Brunno Ferreira (+154)
• Bantamweight: Xiao Long (-162) vs. Cody Garbrandt (+136)
• Middleweight: Donte Johnson (-800) vs. Cody Brundage (+550)
• Featherweight: Alberto Montes (-180) vs. Ricky Turcios (+150)
• Flyweight: Nyamjargal Tumendemberel (-148) vs. Cody Durden (+124)
• Flyweight: Su Mudaerji (-230) vs. Jesús Santos Aguilar (+190)
• Light Heavyweight: Rafael Tobias (-185) vs. Diyar Nurgozhay (+154)
• Featherweight: Jeong Yeong Lee (-325) vs. Gaston Bolanos (+260)
• Light Heavyweight: Luke Fernandez (-230) vs. Rodolfo Bellato (+190)

How to Watch UFC 326

UFC 326 will be broadcast live on Paramount+ on Saturday, March 7, 2026. The main card begins at 9:00 PM ET, with prelims starting at 7:00 PM ET and early prelims at 5:00 PM ET.

Staff Predictions: A Divided Panel

CBS Sports’ staff predictions reveal a split opinion on the main event, with Holloway receiving the majority of picks. The consensus leans towards Holloway winning by TKO or unanimous decision.

Prediction Breakdown

FAQ

Q: Where is UFC 326 taking place?
A: T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Q: When is UFC 326?
A: Saturday, March 7, 2026.

Q: How can I watch UFC 326?
A: UFC 326 will be available on Paramount+.

Q: What is the BMF title?
A: The BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title is a ceremonial belt awarded to the winner of select UFC fights.

Did you realize? Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira first fought in 2015, but the bout was stopped early due to an injury to Oliveira.

Don’t miss the action! Share your predictions in the comments below and explore more UFC coverage on our site.

Lone’er Kavanagh’s Upset: A Flyweight Division on the Cusp of Change

Lone’er Kavanagh’s stunning unanimous decision victory over former champion Brandon Moreno at UFC Fight Night 268 wasn’t just an upset. it signaled a potential shift in the flyweight landscape. The 26-year-old Brit, stepping in on short notice, masterfully outstruck Moreno, raising questions about the division’s established hierarchy.

From Replacement to Contender: Kavanagh’s Rapid Ascent

Kavanagh’s win was unexpected, especially considering his recent knockout loss to Charles Johnson. Many considered this a significant leap in competition, particularly on short notice and in Moreno’s home country of Mexico. However, Kavanagh’s performance demonstrated a clear skill set capable of troubling even the most seasoned flyweights. He didn’t just win; he controlled the fight, rendering Moreno hesitant to engage in striking exchanges.

Moreno’s Decline and the Flyweight Shuffle

Brandon Moreno’s loss marks his second consecutive defeat and four losses in his last six outings. Once a dominant force in the division, Moreno’s recent struggles raise concerns about his future trajectory. This opens the door for new contenders like Kavanagh to rise through the ranks.

Potential Matchups: Charting Kavanagh’s Path

With Joshua Van currently scheduled to defend his title against Tatsuro Taira, and Alexandre Pantoja waiting in the wings, Kavanagh finds himself in a favorable position. Several intriguing matchups could propel him further towards a title shot.

Brandon Royval, a veteran contender coming off back-to-back losses, presents a compelling option. A fight against Kavanagh would be a crucial test for Royval, who needs to prove he remains a top-five threat at 125 pounds. Derailing Kavanagh’s momentum would be a significant statement for the experienced fighter.

The Rise of the Next Generation

Kavanagh’s success highlights a broader trend within the UFC: the emergence of a new generation of fighters. His ability to capitalize on an opportunity, coupled with his technical prowess, demonstrates the increasing depth of talent in the flyweight division. This suggests a more competitive and unpredictable future for the weight class.

Did you know? Lone’er Kavanagh was a +168 underdog going into the fight against Brandon Moreno, according to Best Fight Odds.

FAQ

Q: Who did Lone’er Kavanagh defeat?
A: Lone’er Kavanagh defeated Brandon Moreno via unanimous decision.

Q: What is Brandon Moreno’s current record?
A: Brandon Moreno’s current record is 23-10-2.

Q: What is Lone’er Kavanagh’s current record?
A: Lone’er Kavanagh’s current record is 10-1.

Q: Who is Joshua Van fighting next?
A: Joshua Van is scheduled to defend his title against Tatsuro Taira.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Lone’er Kavanagh’s next fight announcement. His trajectory could significantly impact the flyweight title picture.

What do you think? Will Lone’er Kavanagh continue his ascent to the top of the flyweight division? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Jack Della Maddalena’s Homecoming: A Turning Point for UFC’s Welterweight Division?

Jack Della Maddalena’s return to the Octagon on May 2nd against Carlos Prates in Perth, Australia, isn’t just a fight; it’s a pivotal moment for both fighters and the UFC’s welterweight landscape. Coming off a loss to Islam Makhachev for the welterweight championship, Della Maddalena faces a dangerous opponent in Prates, who has quickly become a fan favorite with back-to-back knockout victories.

The Road to Redemption for Della Maddalena

Della Maddalena’s undefeated streak prior to the Makhachev fight showcased a dominant skillset and earned him the welterweight title. His loss to Makhachev, still, marked the end of that run. Now, he’s looking to rebound in front of a home crowd. This fight represents a crucial step in reclaiming championship contention. A win against Prates would immediately re-establish Della Maddalena as a top threat in the division.

Carlos Prates: The Rising Star

Carlos Prates has rapidly ascended the welterweight rankings, captivating audiences with his aggressive style and finishing ability. His recent knockout victories over Leon Edwards and Geoff Neal demonstrate his potential to disrupt the established order. Prates’s momentum makes him a formidable opponent for anyone, and a win over Della Maddalena would solidify his position as a legitimate title challenger.

Prates’s Recent Successes

Prates’s victories over former champion Leon Edwards and Geoff Neal have been particularly noteworthy. These wins weren’t just decisions; they were decisive finishes, showcasing Prates’s power and precision. This has quickly made him one of the most exciting fighters to watch in the UFC.

What This Fight Means for the Welterweight Division

The welterweight division is currently brimming with talent. With Makhachev at the top, fighters like Prates and Della Maddalena are vying for the opportunity to challenge for the title. This matchup will likely determine who gets the next shot. The outcome will too influence the future direction of the division, potentially opening doors for other contenders.

UFC’s Return to Australia

This event marks the UFC’s return to Australia, following a previous event in Sydney just three months prior. Hosting events in Australia demonstrates the UFC’s commitment to expanding its global reach and catering to its international fanbase. The Perth event is expected to draw a significant crowd and generate considerable excitement.

FAQ

Q: When and where is the fight?
A: The fight takes place on May 2nd in Perth, Australia.

Q: What is at stake in this fight?
A: Both fighters are looking to re-establish themselves as top contenders in the welterweight division.

Q: Who is Carlos Prates?
A: Carlos Prates is a Brazilian welterweight fighter known for his knockout power and recent victories over Leon Edwards and Geoff Neal.

Q: What happened in Della Maddalena’s last fight?
A: Della Maddalena lost to Islam Makhachev in November, losing his welterweight championship.

Don’t miss out on the action! Stay tuned for further updates on the card as the UFC announces additional fights for UFC Fight Night in Perth.

What are your predictions for this fight? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

From Trash Talk to Sparring: The Boxing vs. MMA Debate Heats Up

The long-standing rivalry between boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) has flared up again, this time fueled by a social media exchange between UFC welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley and boxing champions Shakur Stevenson and Terence Crawford. What began as a disagreement over entertainment value and combat skill has escalated into a potential sparring match, raising questions about the future of cross-discipline challenges.

The Spark: Disrespect and Retaliation

The conflict ignited when Stevenson and Crawford dismissed MMA’s entertainment value during a live stream, with Stevenson boldly stating that “UFC would never be better than boxing at all.” Buckley responded with a fiery rebuke, accusing the boxers of disrespect and claiming MMA fighters would prevail in a real-world confrontation, even stating, “If we came outside, I could kill you.”

Crawford Enters the Fray

Terence Crawford joined the debate, responding to Buckley’s claims with a dismissive comment about “switches” – a reference to weapons – and questioning Buckley’s standing in the sport. This back-and-forth highlighted a core tension: the differing environments and rulesets of boxing and MMA, and the difficulty in directly comparing skillsets.

Buckley’s Challenge: A Sparring Session at the UFC Apex

Rather than continuing the verbal sparring, Buckley proposed a concrete challenge: a sparring session with Crawford at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on March 7th. He emphasized that this wasn’t about financial gain, offering to participate for free, and framed it as a legitimate test of skills. “This ain’t got nothing to do with payday,” Buckley stated.

Why This Matters: The Appeal of Cross-Discipline Competition

This exchange taps into a broader public fascination with hypothetical matchups between athletes from different combat sports. The debate isn’t new; it reflects a desire to understand which discipline produces the most well-rounded and effective fighters. While full-scale cross-promotion fights are complex to arrange due to differing rules and contracts, sparring sessions offer a glimpse into potential outcomes.

The Future of Cross-Discipline Showdowns

Buckley’s challenge could pave the way for more frequent, albeit informal, cross-discipline interactions. Here’s what we might spot:

Increased Sparring Sessions

More fighters from boxing and MMA may seek out sparring opportunities to test their skills against different styles. This could develop into a valuable training tool, exposing fighters to new techniques and strategies.

Exhibition Matches with Modified Rules

We might see exhibition matches with rulesets designed to bridge the gap between boxing and MMA. These could involve limited grappling or striking techniques, creating a more level playing field.

Continued Social Media Exchanges

Expect more heated debates and challenges on social media, as fighters continue to represent their respective sports and build their brands. This type of engagement can generate significant buzz and attract new fans.

Will Crawford Accept?

As of now, Terence Crawford has not publicly responded to Buckley’s challenge. His decision will be a key indicator of whether the boxing world is willing to engage in this type of cross-discipline competition. The potential for a high-profile sparring session has already captured the attention of fans and media alike.

FAQ

Q: What sparked the conflict between Buckley and Crawford?
A: The conflict began with a disagreement over the relative merits of boxing and MMA, initiated by comments from Shakur Stevenson and Terence Crawford on a live stream.

Q: What is Joaquin Buckley challenging Terence Crawford to do?
A: Buckley has challenged Crawford to a sparring session at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on March 7th.

Q: Is this sparring session likely to happen?
A: This proves currently uncertain. Crawford has not yet responded to the challenge.

Q: Why are people interested in seeing boxing and MMA fighters compete?
A: There’s a long-standing debate about which combat sport produces the most skilled fighters, and cross-discipline matchups offer a way to explore that question.

Did you know? Sparring is a common training method in both boxing and MMA, but the styles and techniques used differ significantly.

Pro Tip: Following fighters on social media is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments in the combat sports world.

What are your thoughts on the boxing vs. MMA debate? Share your opinions in the comments below!

The Evolving Landscape of Combat Sports: Beyond the Octagon

Alexander Volkanovski’s upcoming rematch with Diego Lopes at UFC 325 isn’t just a compelling fight; it’s a microcosm of the broader shifts happening within combat sports. The increasing globalization of MMA, the influence of streaming services like Paramount+, and the evolving strategies for fighter development are all converging to reshape the future of the industry. This isn’t simply about bigger paydays; it’s about a fundamental change in how fans consume, and athletes participate in, combat sports.

The Streaming Revolution and Accessibility

The UFC’s exclusive partnership with Paramount+ is a landmark moment. For decades, pay-per-view (PPV) events were the standard, creating a barrier to entry for casual fans. Now, with all numbered events included in a subscription, accessibility is dramatically increasing. This shift mirrors trends in other entertainment sectors, like music and film, where streaming has become dominant.

This increased accessibility isn’t just about convenience. It’s about expanding the fanbase. A wider audience translates to greater sponsorship opportunities, increased merchandise sales, and ultimately, a more sustainable ecosystem for fighters. Data from Nielsen shows a consistent rise in streaming viewership across all demographics, suggesting this trend will continue.

The Rise of Regional Talent and Global MMA

UFC 325 taking place in Sydney, Australia, highlights another key trend: the globalization of MMA. Historically, the sport was heavily concentrated in North America. Now, we’re seeing a surge in talent from regions like Brazil, Russia, Europe, and increasingly, Africa.

This isn’t accidental. Organizations like the UFC are actively investing in regional development programs, scouting talent in emerging markets, and hosting events internationally. This expands the talent pool, creates more compelling matchups, and taps into new fan bases. The success of fighters like Israel Adesanya (Nigeria/New Zealand) and Ciryl Gane (France) demonstrates the potential of this global approach.

Fighter Development: From Traditional Gyms to Data-Driven Training

The way fighters are trained is also undergoing a transformation. While traditional martial arts gyms remain important, there’s a growing emphasis on data analytics, sports science, and specialized coaching.

Teams are now employing biomechanists to analyze movement, nutritionists to optimize diets, and sports psychologists to enhance mental fortitude. Wearable technology tracks performance metrics during training, providing valuable insights into fatigue levels, recovery rates, and areas for improvement. This data-driven approach is helping fighters maximize their potential and minimize the risk of injury.

Real-life example: The Xtreme Couture gym in Las Vegas, known for producing champions like Randy Couture and Anderson Silva, has integrated advanced data analytics into its training programs, giving its fighters a competitive edge.

The Impact of Rule Changes and Safety Concerns

Combat sports are inherently dangerous, and safety remains a paramount concern. Organizations are continually evaluating and refining rules to protect fighters. Recent changes include stricter medical protocols, more comprehensive pre-fight medical evaluations, and adjustments to judging criteria.

The introduction of instant replay and the use of ringside physicians with the authority to stop fights are also crucial safety measures. However, balancing fighter safety with the entertainment value of the sport remains a complex challenge.

The Future of Weight Cutting

Weight cutting, the practice of rapidly losing weight before a fight, has long been a controversial topic. It’s a dangerous process that can lead to dehydration, organ damage, and compromised performance.

The UFC is exploring alternative weight-cutting methods, including more frequent weigh-ins and the potential for same-day weigh-ins. These changes aim to discourage extreme weight cuts and promote fighter health. The implementation of these changes will be closely watched by athletes and fans alike.

FAQ: The Future of Combat Sports

Q: Will PPV events completely disappear?

A: While streaming is gaining dominance, it’s unlikely PPV will vanish entirely. Major, highly anticipated events may still be offered as separate purchases, but accessibility will continue to increase.

Q: How will data analytics impact smaller gyms?

A: The cost of advanced analytics can be prohibitive for smaller gyms. However, affordable wearable technology and online resources are becoming increasingly available, allowing them to incorporate data-driven insights into their training programs.

Q: What role will esports play in the future of combat sports?

A: Esports are already attracting a significant audience, and there’s potential for crossover between the two worlds. MMA-themed video games and virtual reality experiences could further engage fans and attract new audiences.

The future of combat sports is dynamic and multifaceted. The convergence of streaming technology, globalization, data analytics, and a renewed focus on fighter safety is creating a more accessible, competitive, and sustainable industry. The evolution is ongoing, and the next few years promise to be a period of significant transformation.

Want to learn more? Explore our other articles on fighter training techniques and the business of MMA.