Max Holloway vs. Paddy Pimblett fight set for realistic return after UFC 329 wins

Max Holloway is on track for a realistic return to the cage against Paddy Pimblett after his dominant performances at UFC 329.

What happened at UFC 329?

Max Holloway extended his win streak to three straight bouts at UFC 329 on 6 April 2025. The former UFC featherweight champion outclassed his opponent, finishing the fight via unanimous decision with scores of 30-27 across all three judges’ scorecards. Holloway’s striking volume and precision stifled his rival, landing 145 significant strikes to just 42 against. The victory marked his second win in the promotion since dropping to the 145-pound division in 2024.

Why a Holloway vs. Pimblett fight makes sense

Analysts now label a matchup between Max Holloway and Paddy Pimblett as a realistic next step for Holloway. Pimblett, fresh off a first-round knockout win at UFC 329, brings a 12-4 record and a fan-friendly style that could draw big numbers. Holloway’s recent performances-including a decision win over a top-10 contender-prove he remains elite at 145 pounds. The pairing would pit two of the division’s most exciting strikers against each other, with both men averaging over four significant strikes landed per minute in their last fights.

What comes next for Max Holloway?

Holloway’s camp has not confirmed opponents but has repeatedly signaled interest in returning to the UFC’s pay-per-view stage. A win over Pimblett would push him back into title contention conversations at 145 pounds. The promotion’s recent featherweight rankings place Holloway at No. 3, with the top two spots occupied by fighters who have not fought since late 2024. A victory over Pimblett could force the UFC’s hand in reshuffling the division’s hierarchy before the year ends.

Paddy Pimblett’s rise and the fight’s appeal

Paddy Pimblett has become one of the UFC’s most marketable stars since his 2021 debut. His 12-4 record includes five finishes, with his last two coming by knockout in the first round. A fight with Holloway would pit two of the division’s most active strikers against each other, with both men landing over 5.0 significant strikes per minute in their last outings. The pairing would also deliver a high-energy main card bout, a formula the UFC has leaned on to boost viewership in 2025.