Max Holloway was met with an overwhelming reception upon his arrival in South Korea on Sunday.
The former UFC featherweight champion traveled to the East Asian country to assist one of his past adversaries in scouting potential fighters for a forthcoming MMA event that rival is promoting.
Holloway, known as `Blessed`, was the opponent who sent Jung Chan-sung, widely recognized as ‘The Korean Zombie’, into retirement following their bout.
Holloway delivered a spectacular faceplant knockout against Jung in the main event of UFC Singapore in August 2023. However, he earned significant admiration from South Korean fans by showing immense respect to the country`s fighting legend during his post-fight comments.
Viral Footage Shows Holloway`s Hero`s Welcome in South Korea
Upon arrival, Holloway was greeted by `The Korean Zombie` himself, who presented his former foe with flowers.
The fighter from Hawaii was also welcomed by hundreds of enthusiastic fans who filled the airport terminal hoping to see him.
Flashing cameras and cheering crowds accompanied Holloway`s entrance, creating a scene akin to a rockstar`s arrival.
Holloway appeared surprised by the overwhelming reception, as did many UFC fans who later saw videos of the event online.
Social media users reacted with delight, calling the scene “awesome,” “dope,” “pure class,” and “wholesome.” Many expressed how great it was “to see it” and called the scale of the welcome “INSANE.”
What Lies Ahead for Max Holloway?
Holloway`s most recent fight was a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in their featherweight title bout last October.
Following that fight, the 33-year-old fighter confirmed his intention to move up permanently to the lightweight division at 155 pounds.
For several weeks, speculation has been rampant regarding a potential BMF title trilogy fight against lightweight veteran Dustin Poirier.
Reports about a third clash between Poirier and Holloway surfaced last month. However, the UFC has yet to officially confirm this bout, which Poirier, known as ‘The Diamond’, has hinted could be the final fight of his career.
Fans are eagerly awaiting an official announcement from UFC President Dana White regarding this highly anticipated matchup.
Rupert Hartwell