Max Holloway Fires Back at Islam Makhachev's Double-Champ Dig: “You’re Messing with the Wrong One”

The verbal sparring between Max Holloway and Islam Makhachev has intensified.

During a live stream on Kick, Holloway addressed Makhachev's recent welterweight title defense at UFC 330. Holloway took issue with Makhachev parading two championship belts, especially after he relinquished his lightweight title in 2025.

Makhachev subsequently commented on social media, suggesting Holloway wouldn't comprehend the significance of holding two titles. Holloway, however, didn't hold back, explaining his surprise at Makhachev's continued display of multiple belts.

"Yeah, I saw the clip after the fight," Holloway stated. "Before he won his second title, he gave up his first title, and Ilia already won the title before he even did it. So, him having it, why? I ain’t even gonna say nothing about him. We know somebody else runs his social media for him."

Holloway then proceeded to display his own collection of UFC championships, including the current Featherweight Championship, his legacy belts, and the BMF Championship. He also criticized Makhachev's team for their reaction to his perspective on Makhachev still carrying two titles after UFC 330.

The former 145-pound king then addressed Makhachev directly regarding the management of his social media presence.

"Don’t ever come for my throat, bro," Holloway declared. "Especially when you’re hiding behind another man’s IG. It is what it is. You guys can be mad at me for saying what I said. Don’t you ever come for my neck and tell me I don’t know how heavy it is. Brother, I got a bunch of those bad boys in my house with me."

Holloway concluded with a stern warning to Makhachev and his team.

“You’re messing with the wrong one,” Holloway asserted.

The details of Holloway's next fight remain unclear. His scheduled bout against Conor McGregor at UFC 329 was unfortunately cut short due to McGregor's injury. With McGregor sidelined until at least summer 2027, Holloway is unlikely to wait that long before returning to the Octagon.