Max Holloway possesses one of the most legendary chins in mixed martial arts history. Across a career spanning over 30 fights in the punishing landscape of the UFC, “Blessed” had never been truly knocked out until recently. That changed when Ilia Topuria landed a fight-ending blow, securing a spectacular third-round victory. Despite this decisive outcome, Holloway offers a perspective that might surprise many fight fans: Topuria, he suggests, isn`t necessarily the hardest puncher he`s ever faced.
Acknowledging Topuria`s undeniable power, validated by the knockout itself, Holloway places “El Matador” among the elite pound-for-pound punchers in the sport. However, in comparing him to past opponents, a particular name comes up: Justin Gaethje. Holloway battled Gaethje just prior to facing Topuria, in a memorable clash for the BMF title where he absorbed significant damage, including being dropped in the later rounds before securing his own dramatic knockout win at the final buzzer.
The Paradox of `Felt` vs. `Effective` Power
In a recent interview, Holloway contrasted the sensation of being hit by the two powerhouses. He noted that while Topuria`s knockout punch delivered an unprecedented result, the overall force felt from Gaethje seemed, subjectively, greater during their five-round war. “When I fought Gaethje, I felt some things,” Holloway remarked, suggesting a level of raw power that resonated more deeply, fight-long, than the single shot from Topuria that ended their bout. It`s a curious paradox: the fighter who *didn`t* knock him out felt harder-hitting than the one who *did*. This isn`t to diminish Topuria`s feat, Holloway clarifies, stating the result speaks for itself regarding Topuria`s effectiveness. Perhaps the difference lies not just in raw power, but in precision and timing – qualities Topuria has in abundance.
Technical Breakdown: Emmett`s Perspective
This nuanced view on Topuria`s power isn`t unique to Holloway. Josh Emmett, another tough featherweight who went five rounds with Topuria (the only fighter to do so), echoes a similar sentiment regarding the subjective `hardest hitter` label. Emmett, while acknowledging Topuria`s effectiveness, points to a technical explanation rather than sheer brute force. He highlights Topuria`s excellent footwork, constant good positioning, rapid speed, and uncanny accuracy.
Emmett explains that Topuria “is not loading up a 100%.” His power, rather, is generated through the seamless combination of speed, precision, and landing from optimal angles. This technical proficiency allows him to deliver impactful shots consistently, even if the subjective feeling of the impact might not compare to the perceived blunt force of a fighter like Gaethje, known for his devastating low kicks and heavy hands. It`s a testament to the different ways power can manifest in fighting – through raw force or through calculated, precise delivery.
Ultimately, Max Holloway`s perspective offers an intriguing look at the subjective experience versus the objective reality of a knockout punch. While Ilia Topuria holds the distinction of being the first to stop the iron-chinned Hawaiian, Holloway`s assessment suggests that the `hardest hitter` title might be more complex than just who delivered the lights-out blow. The conversation about power in MMA, it seems, continues to evolve.
Marcus Bellamy