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Max Holloway 'would clean up at 170' says ex-UFC welterweight champ

2026-07-15 · Max Holloway · Opinion

Max Holloway 'would clean up at 170' says ex-UFC welterweight champ

Max Holloway could dominate the UFC welterweight division if he chose to move up, according to Robbie Lawler, the former UFC welterweight champion.

What did Robbie Lawler say?

Robbie Lawler, the former UFC welterweight champion, told media on 15 July 2026 that Max Holloway “would clean up at 170 if he wanted to.” Lawler’s comment came during a wide-ranging interview about rising welterweights and where Holloway might fit if he left the featherweight ranks.

Why does this matter for Max Holloway?

Holloway has long been linked with a move to 170 pounds after cementing his legacy at 145. The Hawaii native holds a record-tying 20-fight UFC win streak and holds the most significant strikes landed in a single UFC fight. At 34, Holloway remains one of the most active and marketable stars in the sport, with a 24-7 record and a 2023 Performance of the Year nod for his five-round war with Volkanovski.

Lawler’s praise adds weight to the growing chorus suggesting Holloway could thrive at 170. The division boasts deep talent, but Holloway’s volume striking and cardio could overwhelm elite welterweights. His last fight ended in a split decision loss to Volkanovski in December 2023, yet he rebounded with a decision win over Jung Chan-sung in August 2024.

What comes next for Holloway?

Holloway’s next move remains unclear. He has not fought since August 2024 and has not publicly addressed a weight-class change. Dana White, the UFC president, has previously floated the idea of Holloway vs. Islam Makhachev at 170, though no bout has been booked.

If Holloway does move up, he would join a welterweight field that includes Kamaru Usman, Leon Edwards, and Belal Muhammad. Lawler’s comment underscores the intrigue around Holloway’s future, especially after his narrow loss to Volkanovski reminded fans of his elite status at 145.

Holloway’s camp has not responded to Lawler’s remarks. His next fight-whether at 145 or 170-will shape his legacy beyond the featherweight division.

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