Topuria Denies Refusal Of Volk, Holloway Responds To ‘B—ching Motherf—ker’

Photo by Aldara Zarraoa/WireImage

The war of words between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway continues.

It’s been an interesting start to Topuria’s reign as Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Featherweight champion. To celebrate his big second round knockout of Alexander Volkanovkski (watch highlights) at UFC 298 this past February 2024, Topuria toured Spain and made several appearances in other sporting atmospheres.

Since the celebrations died down, developments have continued to play out around “El Matador,” like Max Holloway’s coronation as the Baddest Motherf—ker (BMF) champion at UFC 300 last month (April 13, 2024). The former Featherweight titleholder, Holloway, went up to Lightweight for his encounter with the perennial top contender, Justin Gaethje, and came out on top with an iconic fifth round knockout (watch highlights). Therefore, “Blessed” is set up nicely to challenge for his old title once more.

It was recently claimed by Joe Rogan when catching up with Holloway that Topuria turned down a rematch against Volkanovski for his first title defense. Catching wind of the comments, Topuria denied ever being offered the fight.

“I never turned down the rematch with Alex as the UFC has never offered me this fight,” Topuria tweeted. “As I’ve said many times before, I will be the first to knockout Holloway. Let’s keep this simple: Do you want to fight? If the answer is yes, there’s nothing more to discuss. Bring my belt and your pillow.”

Volkanovski has expressed frustrations with Topuria’s alleged fight denials since Rogan first mentioned the notion regarding their potential rematch. When it comes to the Holloway match up for Topuria, the champion has maintained his desire for the BMF crown to also be on the line. Otherwise, he’ll move on to Volkanovski or Brian Ortega.

The BMF champion isn’t having it, though, as he promised another belt for Topuria, after all.

“Bro you’re the one making this hard,” Holloway responded. “Ennnnooouuggghhhh already lol. I’ll ‘bring your belt’ The B—ching Mother F—ker [crying laughing emoji] All you are doing is putting words together now. You’re spiraling. [hang loose emoji]”