Makhachev Answers Holloway’s Two-Belt Criticism After UFC 330

Islam Makhachev has answered Max Holloway’s criticism of his two-belt display after UFC 330, where he retained the UFC welterweight championship with a unanimous-decision victory over Ian Machado Garry.

The 34-year-old Russian appeared with both the welterweight belt and the lightweight belt after the fight. Holloway questioned why Makhachev was carrying two titles when only one was being defended, raising the issue during a Kick stream.

Makhachev replied through a comment on an MMA Fighting post about Holloway’s remarks. He joked that the belts were already difficult to carry, while suggesting that Holloway did not understand the reason for the display.

Makhachev no longer holds the lightweight championship as an active title. He gave it up in June 2025 after making four successful defences, before moving his attention to the welterweight division.

His latest victory came against Garry by unanimous decision, although the contest was only intermittently entertaining. The result nevertheless kept Makhachev in possession of the welterweight title and followed his move into the 170-pound class.

Makhachev has also indicated that he wants to return before Ramadan. He said his age means he cannot afford a long break and added that he did not sustain any significant injury in the fight. Carlos Prates, the division’s number-one contender, and third-ranked Michael Morales are among the possible opponents mentioned for his next bout.