In a fiery exchange on social media, reigning UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway and rising contender Ilia Topuria traded barbs regarding a potential bout between the two fighters. The war of words began when Topuria called out Holloway during a promotional event for his upcoming documentary in Madrid.

During the event, Topuria claimed that it was not his fault for the delay in booking his first title defense, pointing the finger at Holloway. According to Topuria, he had been informed that Holloway was facing family issues, struggling with weight cutting, and even expressed interest in fighting in a higher weight class. Holloway, however, took to Twitter to dismiss these claims, stating that Topuria was "just making things up."

The possibility of a showdown between Topuria and Holloway emerged following Holloway's stunning knockout victory over Justin Gaethje in their "BMF" title fight. The win instantly catapulted Holloway into the lightweight title conversation, but the former featherweight champion remains a strong contender in the 145-pound division.

Holloway's only losses at featherweight have come in his trilogy with Alexander Volkanovski, with impressive victories over ranked opponents such as Arnold Allen, Yair Rodriguez, and Calvin Kattar in between. Topuria, who is undefeated in his professional MMA career with a record of 15-0 and a perfect 7-0 in the UFC, has expressed his desire to face the seasoned veteran and future Hall of Famer.

Responding to Topuria's challenge on social media, Holloway informed him that he had been in talks with the UFC and playfully dared him to fight at the Sphere in Las Vegas for UFC 306 on September 14. Holloway even suggested using a rare submission hold, the toe hold, to secure the win, further fueling the rivalry.

With both fighters showcasing their confidence and determination, the potential matchup between Holloway and Topuria promises to be an explosive encounter. Topuria, known for his grappling prowess with eight career submission victories, including his most recent arm-triangle choke of Bryce Mitchell, expressed his ambition to become the first to finish Holloway by knockout.

As the exchange continues to gain attention, fans eagerly await confirmation from the UFC regarding a potential bout between Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria. Will the reigning champion defend his title against the undefeated contender? Only time will tell as the tension between these two athletes heightens in anticipation of a future showdown in the Octagon.