Renato Moicano, the Brazilian featherweight fighter, has recently made it clear that he has no interest in stepping into the octagon with Max Holloway. Moicano, known for his technical prowess and well-rounded skills, believes that he and Holloway are not on the same level. In this article, we’ll delve into Moicano’s reasoning and explore the matchups he prefers.
The Holloway Challenge
Max “Blessed” Holloway, a former UFC featherweight champion, is renowned for his striking, volume, and relentless pace. His impressive resume includes victories over top contenders and memorable battles with the likes of Brian Ortega, Frankie Edgar, and Calvin Kattar. Holloway’s striking accuracy and ability to adapt during fights have solidified his status as one of the division’s elite fighters.
Renato Moicano’s Candid Statement
In a recent interview, Renato Moicano candidly expressed his thoughts on a potential matchup with Holloway. He stated, “Hell f***ing no, my brother. I’m good. Max Holloway would beat me up.” Moicano’s honesty reflects the respect he holds for Holloway’s skills and accomplishments. He acknowledges that they operate on different planes within the featherweight division.
Renato Moicano does NOT want to fight Max Holloway 😭
“I saw a lot of people asking me ‘do you wanna fight Max Holloway’. Hell f***ing no my brother. I’m good, Max Holloway would beat me up.
We have to be real, we are not on the same level. I have to fight somebody like… pic.twitter.com/x4vpJ5Ogar
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 18, 2024
Moicano’s assessment of the situation is straightforward: “We have to be real; we are not on the same level.” While Moicano is a talented fighter in his own right, he recognizes that Holloway’s experience, fight IQ, and championship pedigree set him apart. Rather than chasing a fight that he believes would be an uphill battle, Moicano has other opponents in mind.
So, who does Moicano want to face? He mentioned two names: Beneil Dariush and Paddy Pimblett. Both fighters compete in the lightweight division, which suggests that Moicano might be considering a move up in weight. Dariush, a skilled grappler and striker, has been on a tear in recent years. Pimblett, a charismatic and exciting prospect, made a successful UFC debut and caught Moicano’s attention.
Renato Moicano’s decision not to pursue a fight with Max Holloway is a pragmatic one. While fans may dream of epic battles between top contenders, fighters like Moicano understand the reality of their own abilities and the challenges posed by certain opponents. As the featherweight division continues to evolve, Moicano’s focus remains on opponents who align with his current skill set and aspirations.
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