The inaugural BMF championship holder, Jorge Masvidal, took exception to Max Holloway’s recent comments concerning prior BMF title possessors.
Current BMF champion Max Holloway sparked controversy with recent statements he made regarding the heritage of the belt he now holds.
Holloway, who is scheduled to compete again later this year at UFC 326, recently characterized the BMF title as a ‘joke’ before he claimed it. This appeared to be a direct jab at Justin Gaethje and Jorge Masvidal, who were the previous holders of the title before Holloway’s spectacular late knockout at UFC 300.
Masvidal, who was the very first BMF champion, did not react favorably to Holloway’s assessment.
Jorge Masvidal: ‘It wouldn’t have been Max’s finest performance’ in a hypothetical bout
During a recent interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Masvidal addressed Holloway’s comments.
“I admire Max as a competitor; that is his perspective, and it is simply a viewpoint,” Masvidal stated concerning Holloway.
“I believe he is among the greatest practitioners of the sport. He displays immense tenacity once inside the octagon. However, regardless of whether it was myself or Nate facing Max, it would not have been his most successful evening either. His proficiency is undeniably present…I would genuinely enjoy competing against Max purely due to our contrasting fighting styles. While I acknowledge he is an excellent striker, I simply consider myself superior. I am uncertain about his interpretation of ‘laughing stock’…”
Subsequently, Masvidal was questioned about whether he felt insulted by Holloway’s appraisal.
“Yes, I suppose so, given that I vied for it initially. Yet, concurrently, I do not perceive it as an insult. He has possessed both championships, so… he is entitled to the stance of ‘I do not require that alternative belt,’” Masvidal responded.
“Nevertheless, he has now contended for the title, cherishes the title, and it is the one he showcases most frequently in public. Thus, it presents an amusing paradox.”
Holloway is slated to make his comeback at UFC 326, where he will defend his BMF championship against Charles Oliveira. Concurrently, Masvidal recently hinted at a possible confrontation at the White House, with speculation suggesting Conor McGregor as his opponent.
