Max Holloway Biography: Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway born December 4, 1991 is an American professional mixed martial artist who currently competes in the UFC’s Lightweight division. A former UFC Featherweight Champion, he is also the current holder of the symbolic “BMF” title belt. Widely regarded as one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history, Holloway remains a prominent figure in the sport. As of July 1, 2025, he is ranked #5 in the UFC lightweight rankings and #11 in the men’s pound-for-pound rankings.
Max Holloway Biography
Max Holloway, born Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway on December 4, 1991, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a prominent American mixed martial artist best known for his dynamic performances in the UFC. Primarily competing in the Featherweight division, Holloway has earned widespread respect for his elite striking, toughness, and sportsmanship. As of January 2025, he remains a major force in the UFC and currently holds the symbolic “BMF” (Baddest MF) title.
Max Holloway Biography 2025 Details
| Born | Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway December 4, 1991 Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S. |
|---|---|
| Other names | Blessed |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | 145 lb (66 kg; 10 st 5 lb) |
| Division | Featherweight (2012–2024) Lightweight (2010–2011, 2019, 2024-present) |
| Reach | 69 in (175 cm) |
| Fighting out of | Waianae, Hawaii, U.S. |
| Team | Gracie Technics |
| Rank | Brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Rylan Lizares |
| Category | WWE News |
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About Max Holloway
Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway is an American professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, where he is a former UFC Featherweight Champion and the current symbolic UFC “BMF” title belt holder.
Max Holloway Wiki
- Born: 4 December 1991 (age 33 years), Waianae, Hawaii, United States
- Weight: 145 lb (66 kg; 10 st 5 lb)
- Martial arts: Mixed martial arts, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu
- Spouse: Alessa Quizon (m. 2022)
- Height: 1.8 m
- Full name: Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway
- Nationality: American
Early Life
Holloway was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and raised in Waianae, a community known for its rough, fight-ready culture. He is of Native Hawaiian and Samoan descent. Holloway’s upbringing was marked by hardship—his mother, Missy Kapoi, struggled with crystal meth addiction before eventually recovering, and his father, Mark Holloway, was abusive and left the family when Max was around 11 years old. Holloway began training in kickboxing in 2007 at the age of 15, shortly after finishing his sophomore year of high school. He trained at Team Ruthless and remarkably won his first amateur fight after just three days of training. He went on to graduate from Waianae High School in 2010.
Key Details
- Full Name: Jerome Max Keli’i Holloway
- Date of Birth: December 4, 1991
- Place of Birth: Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
- Nationality: American
- Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Weight: 145 lbs (66 kg)
- Fighting Out Of: Waianae, Hawaii, U.S.
- Team: Gracie Technics
- Rank: Brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Rylan Lizares
- Years Active: 2010–present
Max Holloway Family Background
Raised in Waianae, Hawaii—a community with a rich and tough fighting culture—Holloway is of Native Hawaiian and Samoan heritage. His early years were marked by adversity; his mother, Missy Kapoi, battled addiction but eventually recovered, while his father, Mark Holloway, left the family when Max was about 11. Holloway turned to martial arts as an outlet, beginning kickboxing at age 15. Remarkably, he won his first amateur fight just three days after starting his training. He graduated from Waianae High School in 2010.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Holloway launched his professional MMA career in 2010 and entered the UFC in 2012 as its youngest fighter at the time. He quickly built a reputation for his high-volume striking and relentless pace. In 2017, he captured the UFC Featherweight Championship by defeating José Aldo and went on to defend it successfully multiple times, becoming one of the most celebrated champions in the division’s history. In 2024, Holloway added to his legacy by winning the UFC’s symbolic “BMF” title.
Notable Achievements
- UFC Featherweight Champion (2017): Defeated José Aldo to claim the title.
- Significant Strikes Record: Landed a record 445 significant strikes in a single fight against Calvin Kattar in 2021.
- “BMF” Title Holder (2024): Earned the symbolic belt, highlighting his fearlessness and elite status in the sport.
Current Status and Outlook
As of early 2025, Max Holloway remains one of the top contenders in the UFC Featherweight division. His recent performances continue to impress fans and analysts alike, reinforcing his reputation as one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history. With the potential to reclaim the title and extend his legacy, Holloway remains a central figure in the UFC landscape.
Personal Life and Relationships
Max Holloway married his longtime partner, Kaimana Pa’aluhi, in 2012. The couple shares a son named Rush Holloway. Although they separated in 2014 and finalized their divorce in 2017, Holloway has remained a devoted father. In early 2020, he began dating professional surfer Alessa Quizon. The two tied the knot on April 16, 2022.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Holloway holds the UFC record for most significant strikes landed in a single fight.
- Despite an early-career loss to Conor McGregor in 2013, he bounced back with a 13-fight winning streak, solidifying his place among the featherweight elite.
- Remarkably, he has never been knocked out in his professional MMA career, highlighting his durability and elite defense.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Outside the octagon, Holloway is committed to giving back. He’s a strong advocate for Hawaii Foodbank, using his platform to fight food insecurity in his home state. His legacy is built not only on his championship success but also on his character and service to the community.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Looking ahead, Holloway remains focused on regaining the UFC Featherweight title and continuing to build his storied legacy. His journey—from overcoming personal struggles to achieving international success—serves as an inspiration. With a growing cultural presence, Holloway is more than just a fighter; he’s a role model and a symbol of resilience, especially within his Hawaiian roots and the broader MMA community.
Max Holloway Net Worth 2025
Holloway’s net worth is estimated at around $3 million. His earnings come primarily from UFC fight purses—ranging between $300,000 and $750,000 per bout—as well as endorsement deals with brands like Reebok, Facebook Gaming, Hawaii Foodbank, and Manscaped. Holloway enjoys a lifestyle reflective of his success, with investments in real estate and a collection of luxury vehicles, while still maintaining a grounded and community-focused image.
FAQs
What is Max Holloway’s fighting style known for?
Max Holloway is widely recognized for his high-volume striking and relentless pace inside the octagon. He overwhelms opponents with his output, footwork, and precise combinations, making him one of the most effective strikers in UFC history.
How did Max Holloway get into MMA?
Holloway began training in kickboxing at age 15 as a way to stay out of trouble. Just days into training, he won his first amateur bout, which sparked his passion for martial arts. His early training eventually led him to pursue a professional MMA career.
What are some of Max Holloway’s most notable fights?
Some of Holloway’s most memorable bouts include his back-to-back victories over José Aldo, his record-setting performance against Calvin Kattar, and his “BMF” title win in 2024. These fights highlight both his skill and resilience.
What belt rank is Max Holloway in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Max Holloway holds a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Rylan Lizares, complementing his striking with solid grappling fundamentals, though he is primarily known for his stand-up game.
Does Max Holloway have any children?
Yes, Max Holloway has a son named Rush Holloway from his first marriage to Kaimana Pa’aluhi. He often speaks about how fatherhood motivates him both personally and professionally.
What makes Max Holloway popular outside the octagon?
Outside of his fighting success, Holloway is admired for his humility, community involvement—especially in Hawaii—and his positive attitude. His laid-back persona and charitable work have made him a fan favorite beyond just UFC audiences.