Charles Oliveira dominates Max Holloway in UFC 326 main event

Former champions clash in lightweight title fight

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In the main event of UFC 326 in Las Vegas, former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira defeated former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) in a fight for the symbolic BMF (Baddest Motherf****r) title. Oliveira dominated the fight with his grappling, taking Holloway down multiple times and controlling him on the ground throughout the five-round contest.

Why it matters

This fight was a highly anticipated rematch between two of the UFC's most accomplished and exciting fighters. Oliveira and Holloway first met over a decade ago, with Holloway winning by first-round TKO. Their paths have diverged since then, with Oliveira becoming a UFC champion and Holloway cementing his status as an all-time great featherweight. The BMF title added an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup.

The details

Oliveira immediately took the fight to the ground in the opening round, securing a takedown and threatening with a rear-naked choke. He maintained control on the ground for much of the fight, utilizing his grappling skills to dominate Holloway. Oliveira landed numerous hard elbows and strikes from top position, while Holloway struggled to mount any significant offense from his back. By the end of the five-round fight, Oliveira had clearly outworked and outclassed Holloway to earn the unanimous decision victory.

  • The fight took place on March 8, 2026 at UFC 326 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
  • Oliveira and Holloway first fought at UFC Fight Night 74 in 2015, with Holloway winning by first-round TKO.

The players

Charles Oliveira

A former UFC lightweight champion who has established himself as one of the top lightweights in the world with his well-rounded skill set and dominant grappling abilities.

Max Holloway

A former UFC featherweight champion and one of the greatest featherweights of all time, known for his exceptional boxing skills and high-volume striking.

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What they’re saying

“I knew this was going to be a tough fight, but I was confident in my abilities and my game plan. Max is a legend, but tonight belonged to me.”

— Charles Oliveira (MMAWeekly)

What’s next

With the victory, Oliveira has solidified his status as one of the top lightweights in the UFC. He will likely be in line for a shot at the UFC lightweight title in his next fight.

The takeaway

This fight showcased Oliveira's continued evolution as a complete mixed martial artist, as he was able to dominate Holloway with his grappling and ground control. The victory over a fellow legend like Holloway further cements Oliveira's place among the elite fighters in the UFC.