UFC 326 Predictions: Experts Pick Max Holloway to Beat Charles Oliveira in BMF Title Rematch

The MMA world is gearing up for an exciting showdown at UFC 326, where former champions Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira will clash again in a highly anticipated BMF title rematch.

According to MMA analysts and staff predictions from Sports Illustrated, most experts are backing Holloway to win the main event. The fight will headline a stacked card at the T-Mobile Arena, promising an action-packed night for fans.

Holloway vs Oliveira 2: Main Event Breakdown

The rematch between Holloway and Oliveira comes more than a decade after their first encounter. In their initial fight in 2015, Holloway secured a TKO victory when Oliveira suffered a neck injury early in the bout.

Now both fighters are far more experienced and accomplished. Holloway is known for his incredible striking pace and durability, while Oliveira holds the record for the most submissions in UFC history.

Why Experts Are Picking Holloway

Many analysts believe Holloway’s strengths give him the edge in this matchup:

• Elite boxing and striking combinations
• High fight pace and unmatched cardio
• Experience in long five-round fights
  

Experts suggest Holloway could dominate the stand-up exchanges and potentially secure a late TKO or decision victory.

Oliveira’s Path to Victory

Despite the predictions favoring Holloway, Oliveira remains one of the most dangerous fighters in MMA. His world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission skills can end fights instantly.

Key strengths for Oliveira include:

• Elite grappling and ground control
• Record-breaking submission finishes
• Ability to capitalize on mistakes quickly
  

If Oliveira manages to take the fight to the ground, many believe he could secure a submission finish.

UFC 326 Main Card Predictions

Besides the main event, experts also shared picks for the rest of the main card.

Caio Borralho vs Reinier de Ridder

Most analysts are backing Caio Borralho thanks to his balanced striking and grappling game.

Rob Font vs Raul Rosas Jr.

Veteran Rob Font faces rising prospect Raul Rosas Jr.. Predictions are mixed, though some experts lean toward Font due to his experience.

Drew Dober vs Michael Johnson

The lightweight battle between Drew Dober and Michael Johnson is considered one of the most evenly matched fights on the card.

Gregory Rodrigues vs Brunno Ferreira

Many analysts expect Gregory Rodrigues to bounce back strongly against Brunno Ferreira in a middleweight showdown.

Betting Odds and Expectations

Sportsbooks have also leaned toward Holloway as the favorite heading into the fight. His striking volume and proven durability make him a difficult opponent for anyone in the division.

However, Oliveira’s submission ability keeps the fight unpredictable, making the main event one of the most exciting matchups of the year.

Final

With elite fighters, high-stakes matchups, and a blockbuster main event, UFC 326 is shaping up to be one of the biggest MMA events of 2026. The rematch between Holloway and Oliveira could deliver fireworks, as both fighters are known for their aggressive styles and finishing ability.

While most experts favor Holloway, Oliveira’s dangerous grappling ensures the fight remains wide open until the final bell.

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