Former UFC champion Max Holloway has received his BJJ black belt from legendary instructor Pedro Sauer, following his performance at UFC 326.
Sauer, a black belt under Rickson Gracie, announced the promotion shortly after Holloway’s bout against Charles Oliveira.
Holloway entered the event as the reigning BMF titleholder, defending the belt against Oliveira in a five-round main event that quickly turned into a grappling-heavy battle.
Throughout the fight, Oliveira repeatedly looked to secure a submission.
The Brazilian attempted several attacks from the back, including multiple choke attempts and even a neck crank, but Holloway managed to defend each threat and survive the dangerous positions.
Despite Holloway’s defensive success, Oliveira controlled much of the fight.
He secured repeated takedowns, took Holloway’s back several times, and dictated the pace of the grappling exchanges.
After five rounds, Oliveira was awarded a unanimous decision victory, with all three judges scoring the fight 50–45 in his favor.
The result also meant Oliveira claimed the BMF title from Holloway.
While the outcome of the fight left many fans disappointed, Holloway’s ability to defend against Oliveira’s submissions stood out.
That defensive performance was enough to impress Sauer.
In a social media post shared after the event, the veteran instructor announced Holloway’s promotion:
Our new black belt, after demonstrating an incredible defense at UFC.
Holloway has rarely finished opponents via submission throughout his MMA career. His last submission victory came in 2015 when he tapped out Cub Swanson.
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