Ariel Helwani shuts down speculation of Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway at Noche UFC in Las Vegas Sphere
Ariel Helwani recently shut down the speculation surrounding the upcoming Noche UFC event in the Las Vegas Sphere and refuted the rumors that Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway will be headlining the event. He reported what the realistic timeline is for the bout and noted that it won't be for the special-themed event.
There has been plenty of speculation surrounding the potential headliners, especially considering that Dana White has promised an incredible spectacle. The MMA community was in a frenzy this past weekend as the French-Canadian broadcast reported Topuria vs. Holloway as a confirmed bout for Noche UFC.
During today's episode of The MMA Hour, the Canadian journalist refuted the rumors and noted that other bouts are being discussed as the headliners instead. Helwani mentioned that he believes Topuria vs. Holloway is in the works, but will be taking place the following month in Utah rather than at the Sphere. He said:
"The plan was always the [Alexa] Grasso title defense as she told us a couple of weeks ago...Then the other plan would be Ilia [Topuria] vs. Max [Holloway] most likely on the October 5th Utah card, which hasn't been officially announced yet."
Check out Ariel Helwani's comments below:
Max Holloway initially hinted a fighting Ilia Topuria at Noche UFC in the Sphere
Ariel Helwani's latest comments regarding the featherweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway at the Sphere also refute 'Blessed's' initial comments, where he hinted at the venue being the site for their bout.
Earlier this month, the former featherweight champion clapped back at Topuria's tweet when he allowed him to select the date for their title fight. Holloway mentioned that he had been in talks for the bout and named the Sphere, which is the venue for Noche UFC as the location. He wrote:
"Been talking to them brother. You need to check your numbers. Since you said it the Sphere by toe hold. See you soon."
Check out Max Holloway's tweet below:
![Max Holloway's tweet responding to Ilia Topuria [Image courtesy: @BlessedMMA - X]](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/07/369c0-17210726879504-1920.jpg?w=500)