We asked AI to predict the winner of UFC 308: Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway (And it gave a surprising reply)

The headlining match of UFC 308 pits UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria against current BMF champion and ex-featherweight champion Max Holloway. Google's AI Gemini has now put forth its prediction for the fight.

The prediction alluded to the match's magnitude, suggesting that Topuria will look to defend the coveted featherweight championship against a legend in Holloway. It deemed the fight as one that's likely to be exciting, placing a freshly crowned champion against an experienced veteran of the sport.

It further listed the strengths, weaknesses, and predictions for both fighters. Topuria's strengths were noted to be his persistent pace, submission prowess, accurate striking, and power. Apparently, 'El Matador's' weakness is his lack of experience at the sport's top level.

As for the UFC 308 prediction for Topuria, it was highlighted that he's a formidable force with firm striking and deadly grappling.

Meanwhile, it was pointed out that Max Holloway's strengths are his unrelenting work ethic, cardio, ability to adapt well, and high-volume striking. Given that Topuria is 27 and Holloway is 32, the latter being older could possibly work against him.

The Hawaiian fighter's volume striking and cardiovascular state were labeled as unparalleled. It was implied that he's consistently fought the best at featherweight and proven he can step up to the plate.

Screenshot of Google's AI prediction for Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway

The overall prediction for the UFC 308 showdown was that although Ilia Topuria is a tremendous opponent, Max Holloway's cardio, experience, and high-volume striking give him a minor advantage. 'Blessed' would likely manage to outlast and break 'El Matador' down to notch the win.

Nevertheless, it acknowledged the fight as a close one, adding that anything's possible inside the octagon.

Moreover, three key factors at play are Topuria's pace, Holloway's durability, and both fighters' resilience in the championship rounds. It was implied that the Georgian-Spaniard would have to maintain his high-pressure pace for all five rounds, while Holloway's famed durability would be put to the test against the champion's power and grappling.

The fight was hailed as a possible classic -- a clash of determination, experience, and styles. With the featherweight championship at stake, the victor will solidify their place as one of the world's greatest fighters.

Screenshot of Google's AI prediction for Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway

---

Ilia Topuria fires back at Conor McGregor's prediction for UFC 308 fight against Max Holloway

The UFC 308 event is booked to transpire at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., on Oct. 26, 2024. Combat sports megastar Conor McGregor recently put forth (and later deleted) a tweet, picking Max Holloway to defeat Ilia Topuria in the UFC 308 headliner.

McGregor asserted that Holloway evolved after losing to him and became a great fighter. He foresees 'Blessed' being incredibly elusive and becoming a two-time featherweight champion.

Notably, McGregor, who's lately been at loggerheads with Topuria, referred to him as "the little man." Topuria responded by bringing up McGregor's losses to Nate Diaz, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Dustin Poirier in MMA, and Floyd Mayweather Jr. in boxing. 'El Matador' also called 'The Notorious' a "fake fighter."