One of the UFC's most unique distinctions no longer belongs to Wai‘anae's Max Holloway.
In the main event of UFC 326 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Holloway lost the organization's BMF belt via unanimous decision to Brazil's Charles Oliveira on Saturday night.
Oliveira, one of the UFC's most feared grapplers, severely limited Holloway, the organization's all-time leader in significant strikes. Oliveira never allowed Holloway to get into a rhythm on his feet, controlling him on the ground for 20 minutes and 49 seconds.
Holloway dropped to 27-9 overall in his UFC career, while Oliveira improved to 37-11, winning his 25th UFC fight.
Boos started to fill T-Mobile arena midway through the first round when it became evident Oliveira's plan was to grapple with Holloway instead of trading with him, a departure from the striking extravaganza seen in other BMF title fights.
In addition to his domination on the ground, Oliveira was able to land 50 of his 66 significant strike attempts, while Holloway landed 26 of his 45.
Following the fight, Oliveira had the BMF belt wrapped around his waist by his father. Holloway had planned to have his wife, Alessa, wrap the belt around him had he won.
Despite the loss, Holloway, 34, appeared to be in good spirits following the fight. In his post-fight interview, he said aiming for the lightweight title remains his goal.
"You gotta give it up for (Oliveria)", Holloway said. "True BMF, and I wouldn't have it any other way. "I'm gonna come back, whoop somebody's a** and be right in title contention again. ... I ain't done yet."
For the latest news of Hawai‘i, sign up here for our free Daily Edition newsletter.
Christian Shimabuku can be reached at christian@alohastatedaily.com.
