Max Holloway does not take UFC fans for granted. He expressed his gratitude for the strong support he receives in every city and country he competes.
Holloway, a Stake Ambassador and reigning UFC BMF title holder, has been a fan favorite throughout his career. His fighting style, personality, and highlight-reel moments have gain him a large and loyal following.
Not only has Holloway been beloved by fans, but he earned the respect from fellow fighters as well. Even when facing Dustin Poirier in his home state of Louisiana, ‘Blessed’ was still cheered. He defeated ‘The Diamond’ in his retirement fight and still, fans continued to show their appreciation and respect.
Max Holloway Reacts to Being Cheered in Louisiana
GettyNEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 19: Max Holloway of the United States speaks to the crowd after defeating Dustin Poirier of the United States by unanimous decision in their lightweight bout during UFC 318: Holloway vs Poirier 3 at the Smoothie King Center on July 19, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Max Holloway also shared his reaction to being cheered his Louisiana despite facing Dustin Poirier. There was a great deal at stake for Poirier, as the bout gave him a chance to retire as a champion.
Poirier won the interim lightweight championship during his career. However, he was unable to capture the undisputed championship after three attempts. Falling shot against Holloway was also his second bid to claim the BMF title.
Although that situation could have led to Holloway being booed, fans in attendance applauded both fighters for their thrilling main event. For ‘Blessed,’ being beloved carries a deeper meaning because it reflects his ability to form an emotional connection with fans.
“[The support from fans] feels good. Even in Louisiana. My last fight with [Poirier], a lot of people said I was going into hostile territory, which I would think. But the fans were super respectful,” Holloway exclusively told Heavy Sports. “Of course, when there’s cheering, they’re cheering for Dustin, but it wasn’t disrespectful in any sense.”
He added: “If anybody fought me in Hawaii, I would think even if it was a likeable fighter, I would think [fans] would go for me.”
Holloway Believes He Will Have Strong Support at UFC 326
Holloway also said he expects strong support at UFC 326, where he will face Charles Oliveira in the main event. The bout serves as a rematch of their 2015 clash and will see ‘Blessed’ defend his BMF title.
During an exclusive interview with Heavy Sports, Holloway said the fan support feels heartwarming. He has built strong backing everywhere he competes.
‘Blessed’ famously referred to Canada as the ’10th Island’ because of the overwhelming support he received when he fought there.
He believes UFC 326 will be no different. Holloway anticipates a strong Hawaiian presence when he faces Oliveira at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
“At the end of the day, it feels good. There’s a saying that I’m your favorite fighter’s favorite fighter. So, that’s always good to hear,” Holloway said. “[Oliveira and I are] fighting in Las Vegas. It’s going to be a Hawaiian heavy crowd. And I mean, I feel like wherever I go, I feel like the fans are always backing me up and cheering me on, and chanting my name.”
He added: “It’s very heartwarming when you hear that kind of stuff in there and just see the people all over the world that you can touch is just amazing.”
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This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
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