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Max Holzer admits viral Adesanya-inspired moment changed things
TL;DR
Max Holzer continues his winning streak in 2025, with a memorable moment after the fight that drew comparisons to Israel Adesanya's iconic post-fight message in 2020.
Key points
- Max Holzer continues winning in 2025
- Holzer's post-fight moment gained attention
- Comparison to Israel Adesanya's 2020 fight
Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
Holzer vs. Adesanya: What happened after the fight was over
Max Holzer kept his winning run going in 2025, and a moment after the final bell had everyone talking.
When Israel Adesanya finished Paulo Costa with a dominant performance back in 2020, he followed it up with one more message to leave no doubt.
After the referee stopped the fight, the middleweight champion stood over his Brazilian opponent and mimed a thrust towards him, which some felt crossed a line.
Holzer caught similar heat for how he handled his latest win, taking what âThe Last Stylebenderâ did and pushing it even further.
Max Holzer discusses the mixed impact of his OKTAGON post-fight brawl
Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
At OKTAGON 69, Max Holzer fell out of the cage after being chased by his opponent, Deniz Ilbay.
Ilbay responded this way after Holzer celebrated his submission win by kissing him on the back of the head and mimicking Israel Adesanyaâs celebration.
Speaking to Bloody Elbow ahead of his return at OKTAGON 88 on May 16, the undefeated fighter admitted that there have been some downsides to all the attention that followed.
âWhen I go outside, I have to take pictures with people all day but itâs no problem,â Holzer said. âIâm very grateful for all my fans, for all my supporters and even for the people who hate me because theyâre also watching. Itâs more pressure, I had to deal with it first but Iâve had one year to really try to focus on myself.â
Holzer added that while he doesnât spend time regretting what happenedâfeeling justified due to comments made by Ilbayâs teamâhe would rather be recognised for his abilities in the ring.
âItâs nothing I can bâ- about because many fans are not professional fighters. So, of course, they donât remember you for this and that. But, at the end of the day, I want to be also a great fighter and push my career with performances.â
The undefeated 24-year-old is now set for another heated clash, this time against former UFC fighter Khalid Taha.
Taha had previously criticised Holzer when their initial fight was cancelled last September, adding more tension ahead of their rescheduled bout.
âHe tried to really hurt my image so yeah, of course itâs personal and I will make him pay for that,â he said.
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Q&A
What did Max Holzer do after his fight that drew attention?
Max Holzer had a notable moment after the final bell that sparked discussions and comparisons to Israel Adesanya's post-fight actions.
How has Max Holzer's performance been in 2025?
Max Holzer has maintained a winning streak throughout 2025, showcasing his skills in the ring.
What is the significance of Israel Adesanya's 2020 fight with Paulo Costa?
Israel Adesanya's 2020 fight against Paulo Costa is significant due to his dominant performance and the impactful message he delivered afterward.
