Max Holloway fully understands the struggles that UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria is currently experiencing outside of the cage and supports his decision to put his UFC career on hold.

Earlier this week, Topuria announced his decision to step away from fighting to begin 2026 while he focuses on his children during a reported divorce. Topuria doesn’t want to “hold the division up,” which is why UFC decided to book Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje for the interim 155-pound title at UFC 324 this coming January. It was a commendable decision from Topuria, but still a hiatus fight fans weren’t expecting.

While Topuria is regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport today there are some things more important than fighting. This includes family, which is exactly why the Spanish superstar is taking a break from defending his UFC title. Topuria needs to make sure his children are taken care of during the process. Once his divorced is finalized Topuria intends to return to UFC to unify his title.

Holloway, who once shared a brief rivalry with Topuria before suffering a knockout loss at the hands of “El Matador” at UFC 308 (see it HERE), took to social media on Thursday to lend some support to his former foe. “Blessed” also has experience with divorce and wanted to let Topuria know that he’s making the right decision.

Check it out below along with Topuria’s response.

“Sorry to hear champ,” wrote Holloway. “If it’s what I’m hearing it is I know the struggle first hand trying to fight while protecting your kids. Hope all goes well.”

“Thanks for the support, brother,” Topuria responded. “All the best for you and your family.”