With UFC 308 on the horizon, excitement mounts for a thrilling night featuring matches that could impact multiple divisions for many years. The main event on October 26th at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi will see Ilia Topuria defend his title against Max Holloway. The pressure is immense for both fighters: Holloway is driven by the desire to reclaim his former title and prove he’s still a top contender, while Topuria seeks to continue his meteoric rise and solidify his status as the division’s future.
UFC 308 includes more than the main event. Fans can expect a variety of talented individuals and veteran athletes to be challenged for authority during the show. This article will explore the important matchups closely and the stories of the contestants involved.
Main Event: Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway – The Featherweight Title Fight
Max Holloway: The Featherweight Legend
For years now Max Holloway has marked the pinnacle of the featherweight category in the UFC. Holloway claimed the featherweight title in 2017, defeating José Aldo to establish himself as one of the greatest in UFC history. His reign saw him overcome elite challengers and build a legacy that continues to influence the division. While he occupied the throne he eliminated some of the best in the division including Brian Ortega and José Aldo. Through relentless footwork and efficient punching methods reminiscent of machine gun fire Holloway built his career.
Despite three losses to Alexander Volkanovski, Holloway’s confidence has remained strong. Now, Ilia Topuria represents the next generation of competition, posing a new obstacle for Holloway.
With years of experience and fortitude behind him, Holloway has an advantage over his young rivals; still, he realizes that he must confront Topuria for more than just preserving his reputation. In addition to that it is necessary to display to the younger fighters that the veterans remain powerful. In his exclusive interview with Stake.com, Holloway shares his mindset for UFC 308 and his belief that his best days are still ahead of him.
Ilia Topuria: The Undefeated Rising Star
At only 27 years old, Ilia Topuria’s rise has been marked by his ability to dominate opponents, whether through striking or grappling. His versatility makes him one of the most dangerous up-and-comers, capable of ending fights on his terms. Topuria has reached the pinnacle of achievement with such success. With his strength and diverse skill set, Topuria can finish encounters either with his striking or grappling abilities.
In his professional MMA career, Topuria has not lost a single bout. His skill in moving between striking and grappling effortlessly positions him as one of the deadliest competitors in the category. Although Topuria recognizes Holloway’s impact on the sport he says this is his time to challenge for the featherweight title at UFC 308.
The Rivalry: Old Guard vs. New Blood
While Holloway and Topuria haven’t engaged in the type of heated verbal battles that often accompany title fights, the narrative is clear. In this face-off, Holloway signifies the established camp while Topuria seeks to take his place. This environment builds inherent stress. The old veteran Holloway will confront Topuria’s speed and power on his way to lasting longer than usual in the ring.
The difference in fighting techniques is captivating. Through his relentless striking and exceptional fitness Holloway chips away at opponents in five rounds; nevertheless, Topuria’s timely finishes push him to be on guard. This clash could either be a methodical battle, with Holloway’s volume striking wearing down Topuria over time, or an explosive finish, with Topuria’s power potentially ending the fight early.
Audiences want to discover if Holloway’s skill can handle Topuria’s relentless approach or if the young star will create a fresh chapter in featherweight fights.
Co-Main Event: Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev
Robert Whittaker: The Ultimate Middleweight Veteran
For years, Robert Whittaker has been one of the division’s most reliable competitors. After losing his title to Israel Adesanya in 2019, he rebounded with wins over Darren Till and Jared Cannonier. Whittaker’s experience and adaptability have kept him at the top of the middleweight division. Facing Chimaev, he has the chance to reaffirm his place as a title contender and prove he can still compete with rising stars.
His abilities all point to good variety. His skills in offense and defense are on par with one another and present a formidable opponent for most rivals. Those who enjoy his skills note his intelligence in the ring and his ability to stay collected under tough times. Victory against Chimaev would return Whittaker to a position of contention for a title opportunity and highlight his position among the finest middleweights worldwide.
Khamzat Chimaev: The Phenom
Chimaev has captivated the MMA world with his rapid ascent, combining dominant wrestling with knockout power. His aggressive style has made him a fearsome competitor, and this fight is his biggest test yet. In nearly all of his fights, he relied on aggressive wrestling and swift ground-and-pound techniques as well as striking to subdue opponents. UFC 308 will present the most difficult test of his career.
Though Chimaev relies on his strong wrestling and grappling techniques for his success he is capable of finishing his foes on their feet. When facing Chimaev’s prior opponents Whittaker presents an entirely new challenge, with his array of techniques and experience posing difficulties that Chimaev has not yet encountered.
The Fight Dynamic: Experience vs. Youth
Even with his excellent record, Chimaev hasn’t encountered anyone as versatile as Whittaker who has retained the title and successfully defended against talented rivals. The ability of Whittaker to use striking and grappling will be essential for countering Chimaev’s confrontational style. Chimaev brings an advantage of speed and muscle to the ring. The fight will showcase a competitive mental test as Chimaev’s approach likely involves bringing Whittaker to the mat while Whittaker’s skill at managing range and striking will likely push Chimaev into uncharted waters.
Heavyweight Rematch: Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov
Ciryl Gane: The Technical Powerhouse
Ciryl Gane will go head to head with Alexander Volkov again in a rematch of their June 2021 clash. In their first encounter, Gane faced Volkov and emerged victorious by a satisfying unanimous decision largely because of Gane’s precise strikes and superb footwork. As a heavyweight contender with exceptional technique and control over the fight’s dynamics, he is considered one of the most powerful. Given his recent struggles against contenders for the undisputed heavyweight title Gane has the opportunity to show his dominance and closer to another title fight.
Alexander Volkov: The Towering Threat
Former heavyweight title holder Alexander Volkov is desperate to win back his 2021 defeat against Gane. Although Volkov was defeated last time he is still an important force in the division because of his powerful technique and tall physique. Through his deep experience and knack for delivering powerful blows from the range, he has shaped his image as a top competitor in the UFC heavyweight division. A knee injury pushed back the rematch but Volkov will make the most of this opportunity to demonstrate his ability to beat Gane the next time.
The Rematch: Precision vs. Power
Upon their second encounter, Gane’s accuracy will face off against Volkov’s muscular power and extent. Volkov has had time to adjust his strategy after their first fight, and he’ll look to use his reach and power to counter Gane’s movement and technical precision. By following his plan Gane could secure a new triumph with his quickness and execution, while Volkov aims to close the distance and unleash powerful strikes to change the outcome of their previous fight.
As originally planned for UFC 308 this contest later shifted to UFC 310 due to Volkov’s harm leading to crucial outcomes for both combatants in their race to be relevant in the heavyweight division.
Light Heavyweight Bout: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakic
Magomed Ankalaev: The Dominant Contender
For years now Magomed Ankalaev has occupied a prominent position in the UFC’s light heavyweight bracket and constantly excels with his skills. With his strong striking and solid grappling skills in action. He is a hard challenger for all rivals in the division. With his recent wins up his sleeve, Ankalaev now stands as a prime contender for the title after a UFC 308 victory.
Aleksandar Rakic: The Comeback Kid
Although Aleksandar Rakic is regarded as a potential star in the world of light heavyweight fighting injuries have curtailed his forward movement. He has beat former champions like Jan Błachowicz and Anthony Smith in his key wins. Following an injury during his last fight he is now without competition for quite a period.
Both combatants find this bout essential; it could decide who will face the light heavyweight champion next. Ankalaev’s consistency makes him a tough opponent, but Rakic’s hunger for a comeback and his knockout power add a layer of unpredictability to this matchup.
The Stakes at UFC 308
Fights at UFC 308 will shape events in various divisions for years to come. Were Holloway to win it would establish his legacy and reclaim the featherweight title he previously owned. Should Topuria emerge triumphant it will establish a new period in the sport and inspire a fresh batch of fighters.
In the follow-up fight Robert Whittaker goes up against Khamzat Chimaev showcasing a struggle of ability and resolve that highlights one veteran against an upcoming sensation. If either fighter wins they will become contenders for a middleweight championship and the significance is immense.
Originally planned for UFC 308. Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov’s heavyweight rematch has now shifted to UFC 310 because of Volkov’s knee injury. Additionally, the significance of the match continues to be crucial for each fighter’s journey to competitive title challenges.
In the upcoming light heavyweight bout with Magomed Ankalaev and Aleksandar Rakic involved there will be title ramifications as they both seek a place in a crowded title race.
Betting on UFC 308
For those looking to add even more excitement, betting on UFC 308 is a great way to get involved. Bet with Stake.com on countless markets that include outright champions and alternative round betting. Placing a bet can increase excitement in every fight for those who think Holloway will regain his title or Topuria will keep his record unbroken.
To gain more insight into Holloway’s mindset before his fight, make sure to check out his exclusive interview with Stake.com, where he shares his thoughts on his preparation and strategy for UFC 308.
UFC 308 – A Night of Legacy, Rivalries, and Rising Stars
Looking ahead to UFC 308 reveals a lineup that will be among the most electrifying in 2023 with each contest determining crucial futures for relevant weight classes. Attendees will find an exciting night full of thrilling combat and standout performances between Holloway and Topuria as well as the co-main event with Whittaker and Chimaev.
As the fighters prepare to step into the Octagon, one thing is certain: UFC 308 could alter the UFC scene for many years. Don’t miss the chance to witness history in the making on October 26, 2024, and, for those feeling lucky, head over to Stake.com to bet on UFC 308 and add even more excitement to an already action-packed event.
