Former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway says his famous “point-down” moment in fights may frustrate his coaches, but it is something that makes him feel “alive” inside the octagon.
The Hawaiian fighter has built a reputation for thrilling fans with the gesture, where he points to the canvas during the final seconds of a fight, inviting his opponent to stand in the middle and exchange punches.
While it may appear reckless, Holloway says the moment captures everything he loves about mixed martial arts.
“You feel like this is the chance,” Holloway said in an interview. “When both fighters are willing to stand and trade at the end, it’s one of the most exciting moments you can have.”
Iconic UFC 300 moment
Holloway’s most memorable point-down moment came during UFC 300, when he faced Justin Gaethje for the symbolic BMF title.
With just 10 seconds remaining in the fight, Holloway pointed to the canvas, signaling Gaethje to abandon movement and meet him in the centre of the octagon.
As the crowd erupted, both fighters exchanged punches in a dramatic final sequence.
Holloway landed the decisive blow with just one second left on the clock, knocking Gaethje out and securing one of the most memorable finishes in UFC history.
Coaches not always impressed
Despite the excitement it brings, Holloway admits his coaching team would prefer him to play it safe.
“My coaches don’t like it,” he said. “They tell me to circle away and stay smart for the final seconds.”
But Holloway believes the gesture adds something special to the sport.
“They create the game plan and we execute it. After that, let me have my 10 seconds of fun.”
A move copied by fighters and fans
The point-down moment has become closely associated with Holloway’s fighting style.
Fans often imitate the gesture during meet-and-greet events, and some fighters have even attempted to replicate it inside the octagon.
Brazilian fighter Charles Oliveira, who is scheduled to face Holloway at UFC 326, has even been seen practicing similar exchanges during training sessions.
No plans to slow down
At 34, Holloway already holds several UFC records, including the most significant strikes landed in the organisation’s history.
But he insists he is far from satisfied with his achievements.
Holloway hopes to capture a world title in another weight class, with his long-term target being the lightweight championship.
“There’s still a lot I want to do,” he said. “There’s no time to relax yet. I’ve got to keep pushing forward.”
For Holloway, the point-down moment may be risky – but it perfectly reflects the fearless approach that has made him one of the UFC’s most exciting fighters.
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