Max Holloway became the undisputed UFC Featherweight Champion when he defeated Jose Aldo in the main event of UFC 212.
Before Holloway makes his first title defense, the champion wants to get a new contract from the UFC.
“Now we’re just taking it one step at a time. I can’t force something. I’m not going to rush something. I’m not going to get mad over something that I have no control over,” Holloway said to KHON2. “Like I said, I can control my feelings and that’s what I am focusing on, myself. It’s only giving me more time to get better, you know? Don’t poke the bear. They’re poking at me right now, but they’re going to see on fight night, so I can’t wait. I’m only getting better. I’m just asking for a fair shake,” Holloway continued. “You see a lot of these guys, a lot of these other champions making what they’re making. I’m not trying to take anything away from them, but I feel like I’m one of the more exciting fighters under contract in the UFC. At the end of the day, I’m the king. I’m in my throne, you know? If you want to come see me, come see me.”
Holloway isn’t the only UFC champion trying to get his contract status worked out with the promotion, because UFC Heavyweight Champion Stipe Miocic is in the same boat as the Hawaiian.
When Holloway does return to action, the champion would like to have a home state fight.
“My last couple of fights have been out of country,” Holloway said. “Let me come home. Let me come to the ‘ninth island’ (Las Vegas), as close as we can get to UFC Hawaii, so give me that.”
The UFC has yet to comment on Holloway’s contract situation, there is also no timeframe for when he is going to return to the Octagon.
