The “Baddest Motherf***er” title is back on the line, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. On March 7, 2026, the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will host a rematch 11 years in the making as Max “Blessed” Holloway defends his BMF strap against former lightweight king Charles “Do Bronxs” Oliveira in the main event of UFC 326. With both men firmly established as future Hall of Famers, this fight isn’t just about a symbolic belt—it’s about settling unfinished business and securing a shot at the lightweight gold.
Our comprehensive UFC 326 Preview breaks down the main event stylistic matchup, the road to the octagon, and the critical stakes for the 155-pound division.
UFC 326: The BMF Rematch Context
To understand the magnitude of this fight, you have to rewind to 2015. A young Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira met in a featherweight bout that ended abruptly when Oliveira suffered an esophageal injury just 1:39 into the first round. It was a “What If?” moment that has lingered for over a decade.
Fast forward to 2026: Holloway has evolved into one of the greatest boxers in MMA history, capturing the BMF title with an iconic last-second knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 and defending it against Dustin Poirier at UFC 318. Meanwhile, Oliveira rebuilt himself from a mid-tier prospect into the most dangerous finisher in UFC history, holding the record for most submission wins.
This isn’t just a rematch; it’s a clash of two distinct martial arts philosophies at the absolute peak of their powers.
Main Event Breakdown: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2
Max Holloway: The Volume King
Since permanently moving to lightweight, Max Holloway has looked revitalized. His chin, legendary for its durability, has held up against the division’s heaviest hitters. Holloway’s game plan relies on overwhelming volume and cardio. According to official stats, he lands an absurd 7.20 significant strikes per minute. Against a pressure fighter like Oliveira, Holloway’s ability to pivot, create angles, and punish the body will be key to stopping “Do Bronxs” from marching forward.
- Key Stat: Holloway has never been submitted in his professional career—a streak Oliveira will be desperate to break.
- The X-Factor: The “Point to the Floor.” Holloway’s willingness to trade in the pocket is his greatest weapon but also a risk against Oliveira’s clinch knees and elbows.
Charles Oliveira: The Finisher
Charles Oliveira enters this fight with a point to prove. After a knockout loss to current lightweight champion Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, Oliveira rebounded with a clinical submission win over Mateusz Gamrot. His path to victory lies in chaos. Oliveira is a master of blending Muay Thai pressure with instant grappling transitions. He averages 2.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes, the highest rate among active lightweights.
- Key Stat: Oliveira maintains a 53% significant striking accuracy but absorbs 3.20 strikes per minute. He cannot afford to play a pure boxing match with Holloway.
- The X-Factor: Early aggression. Oliveira is historically most dangerous in the first round, while Holloway is known to build momentum as the fight goes deep.
Fight Card Information
While the full undercard is still being finalized by the matchmakers, the confirmed main event is enough to sell out the arena.
- Event: UFC 326: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2
- Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
- Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Broadcast: ESPN+ PPV (USA), TNT Sports (UK)
Stakes & Implications: The Road to Gold
This fight has massive title implications. With Ilia Topuria sitting atop the lightweight mountain after vacating the featherweight strap, the winner of UFC 326 is the undeniable #1 contender. For Holloway, a win cements his legacy as a two-division great and potentially sets up a rematch with Topuria—this time at 155 lbs. For Oliveira, reclaiming the belt he never lost in the cage (having been stripped for a weight miss in 2022) remains the ultimate goal.
Furthermore, Arman Tsarukyan is lurking in the shadows, making the lightweight title picture one of the most shark-infested waters in the sport. A decisive finish here is mandatory to secure the next shot.
UFC 326 FAQ
What time does UFC 326 start?
The main card is expected to begin at 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Prelims usually start at 8:00 PM ET.
Is the BMF Title on the line?
Yes. Max Holloway will be defending his BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title. It is a five-round main event.
How can I watch UFC 326?
In the US, the main card is exclusive to ESPN+ PPV. In the UK, it will be broadcast on TNT Sports. Check your local listings for international broadcasters.
Who is the favorite to win?
Early odds suggest a close contest, with Holloway opening as a slight favorite (-130) due to his striking volume and takedown defense, while Oliveira sits as a dangerous underdog (+110).