5 most intriguing storylines to watch ahead of UFC 266

#2. Where does Max Holloway fit into the title picture after UFC 266?

Former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway

Max Holloway's specter is looming large over the UFC 266 title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega. The former UFC featherweight champ has proven himself to be a top dog in the division after putting on a masterclass against Calvin Kattar at UFC Fight Island 7.

'Blessed' went into battle against the reigning champ twice and lost both times via decision. However, a significant segment of fans believe Holloway was robbed during those two outings.

Holloway has also faced Ortega once before at UFC 231. The Hawaii native thoroughly dominated 'T-City' and exposed his glaring deficiencies in the striking department.

That said, the best-case scenario for Holloway is probably for Ortega to capture the crown at UFC 266. If Volkanovski retains, Holloway might have to earn another victory to justify a trilogy, especially as Giga Chikadze has been hot on his trail.

---

#1. Will Alexander Volkanovski finally earn the respect he deserves at UFC 266?

Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will defend his crown at UFC 266

As mentioned above, a number of fans believe Alexander Volkanovski does not deserve to be the champion. Some observers are in the camp that Holloway should've gotten the decision over Volkanovski at UFC 245 and at UFC 251.

However, the stats clearly indicate that the Australian fighter landed more strikes (157 to 134) and did so at a more efficient clip (51% to 44%) in the first fight. The rematch was a slightly different. Volkanovski still connected with more strikes (137 to 102), but Holloway had the better landing rate (50% to 38%).

Volkanovski was able to do to Holloway what no other fighter in the promotion had done. 'The Great' kept up with the Hawaiian's absurd output and pace and beat Holloway in his own game.

If Volkanovski loses at UFC 266, it's inevitable that his detractors will brand him a transitional champ and an underserving titleholder. If he wins, he might have to beat Holloway a third time to shut his doubters up. Of course, none of those are fair, but Volkanovksi might have to put on a tremendous performance just to get the respect that he truly deserves.