Concerns about UFC lightweight champion Max Holloway’s condition were put to rest through a remarkable four-round title defense against Brian Ortega at UFC 231 on Saturday. Holloway retained his 145-pound title for the second time by defeating Ortega via TKO in the fourth round.
A ringside doctor stopped the championship bout before the fifth round began due to the severe damage to Ortega’s face. “Is there anyone else?” Holloway remarked. “We didn’t get it in the [fourth] round; we got it at the end. He’s a tough opponent, a tough guy.” It was a brilliant performance by Holloway, who had to pull out of two title fights earlier this year due to health issues.
The most alarming incident took place in July when he was withdrawn due to “concussion-like symptoms.” The fight was a display of footwork, and Ortega (15-1), from Los Angeles, brought his best moves. He managed to gain some momentum early in the third round by pushing Holloway back with some powerful strikes.
Despite the intense exchanges, Holloway dominated the fight. He weathered Ortega’s onslaught and displayed precision with his right-hand strikes. He drew blood from Ortega’s nose with hard punches in the second round, leaving no room for his opponent to settle in.
According to Fightmetric, Holloway set a UFC record with 290 significant strikes, surpassing Nate Diaz’s record of 238. Ortega landed 110 significant strikes. Holloway also outperformed Ortega in total strikes, 307-112. It was a remarkable performance throughout the match.
