In November 2016, a notorious MMA fighter from Ireland did the unthinkable by winning a championship belt in another weight class. For the first time in UFC history a fighter held the championship in two divisions. Regardless if you choose to cheer or jeer this fighter, it truly was an awesome feat. Something to admire and respect. Following the fight, the notorious and glorious gladiator did just that…admired himself. Post-fight, he quickly dubbed himself “The Double Champ”. No one could question his ability or skill; however, there have only been questions since that time. Shortly after winning the title, UFC active fighter alum Conor McGregor relinquished one of the two titles he earned. Many people and fans questioned “Why”?
When McGregor won the second title it was nearing the end of 2016. Throughout all of 2017 fans started asking another question, “when will Conor fight again”? Well, that question was answered. In August 2017, after a nine-month break, Conor put the gloves back on, except this time they were boxing gloves. In addition, he stepped into the squared circle, versus an eight-sided, 750 square foot arena that measures 30 feet across and 6 feet high. What McGregor did and accomplished is very admirable, but his allure has faded.
Enter a new era, a blessed one. With McGregor away performing spectacles, the focus was shifted back to one of the best, if not the best, division in UFC. The time was now. The division and UFC was ready for a new champion. A fighter that would, you know…fight. A battle tested and hungry fighter soon made his mark. Max Holloway beat a very talented fighter in Anthony Pettis at UFC 206 for the interim Featherweight Title. Six months later, Holloway defeated a legend in the sport by TKO’ing Jose Aldo. To prove it was not a fluke, Max gave the reigning legend another shot. The fight ended in similar fashion. Max Holloway could rest easy, but that is not his style. Max is scheduled to fight again at UFC 222 in March against veteran fighter Frankie Edgar. Basically, he is scheduled to fight for the fourth time in 15 months.
The point of all of this writing is to highlight one thing, the double champ did not leave in November 2016. The double champ has been in UFC this entire time fighting in the Octagon, and he does it with class. Max Holloway is UFC’s Featherweight Champion; however, his humility and fighting spirit make him the real double champion. Stay “Blessed”.
Thanks for reading
MF