Why Max Holloway Fell Short Against Charles Oliveira at UFC 326 Post Fight Reviews.
A breakdown of UFC 326 where Charles Oliveira secured the BMF title via decision, and why Max Holloway’s defensive gaps led to a disappointing night in the cage.
UFC 326 is officially in the books, and while the marquee names promised fireworks, the reality inside the Octagon told a different story. As an analyst for Score Games MMA, I’ve watched many tactical battles, but tonight’s main event left fans wanting more. From “Do Bronx” capturing the BMF strap to a mix of clinical finishes and lackluster decisions, here is the full post-fight review.
Main Event: Oliveira’s Ground Dominance Silences Holloway.
The rematch between Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway for the BMF title ended in a unanimous decision (50-45 x3) for the Brazilian. However, the fight lacked the “all-out war” energy fans expected.
- Defensive Gaps: The primary reason for Holloway’s loss was his inability to keep the fight standing. His defensive wrestling failed him early, allowing Oliveira to dictate the pace.
- Time Killing on the Canvas: Oliveira, usually a high-octane finisher, spent much of the championship rounds neutralizing Max on the ground. While it was a dominant technical performance, it felt like “time-killing” to many viewers, slightly bruising the exciting reputation Oliveira has built.
- The Missed Opportunity: In the final round, Max actually found himself in a dominant top position. Had he stayed heavy and unleashed grounded elbows, the result might have been different. Instead, Max looked to disengage and return to his pocket boxing range—a decision that cost him his last chance at a finish.
The Main Card Grind: Borralho and Rosas Jr.
The middle of the card saw two more fights go the distance, testing the patience of the crowd.
- Caio Borralho vs. Reinier de Ridder: Borralho took the win via unanimous decision (30-27 x3). While the fight was technically interesting, it lacked the “killer instinct” many expected from Borralho. He controlled the cage but never quite threatened a finish against the veteran De Ridder.
- Raul Rosas Jr. vs. Rob Font: This was another grueling affair. The young submission specialist Raul Rosas Jr. leaned heavily on his grappling to shut down Font’s veteran striking. It was a stagnant performance that lacked the “wow” factor, resulting in a 30-27 sweep for the youngster.
The Saviors of the Night: Dober and Rodriguez.
Thankfully, the preliminary and mid-card bouts provided the violence the main events lacked.
- Drew Dober vs. Michael Johnson: This was the highlight for the striking fans. Dober weathered the early speed of Johnson and found his timing in the second. At 1:53 of Round 2, Dober landed a thunderous left hand that ended Johnson’s night via TKO.
- Gregory Rodriguez vs. Brunno Ferreira: “Robocop” didn’t need much time to find his range. Rodriguez shut the lights out on Ferreira at just 1:47 of the first round with a massive right hand KO. It was a clinical display of power and timing.
UFC 326 Post-Fight Honors.
- Fight of the Night: Drew Dober vs. Michael Johnson (For the high-paced exchanges and dramatic finish).
- Performance of the Night: Gregory “Robocop” Rodriguez (For his flawless first-round knockout).
- Performance of the Night: Charles Oliveira (For becoming the new BMF Champion, despite the slow pace).
The big question remains: Does Charles Oliveira’s wrestling-heavy approach at UFC 326 change your opinion of him as a ‘BMF’ fighter, or was he just doing what was necessary to win? Let’s hear your take in the comments!