This past weekend on the main card of UFC 272 we saw the welterweight debut of Kevin Holland (22-7, 1 NC). Holland took on the very tough veteran Alex Oliveira (22-12-1, 2 NC) in his 170 pound debut.
Back in 2020, Kevin Holland was one of the UFC’s Fighters of the Year. He went a perfect 5-0 and that stretch launched him into stardom. Between his personality and his ability to handle business inside the cage, Holland looked destined for superstardom.
However, he ran into a tough stretch in 2021. The UFC gave him a headliner against Derek Brunson which could have led to a title shot. However, his wrestling wasn’t up to speed and he lost a lopsided decision. That scenario repeated itself in a main event against Marvin Vettori.
After a No Contest against Kyle Daukaus, Holland decided to drop to welterweight. He was always a very small middleweight and the UFC’s welterweight division seems more like a natural home. He was a big favorite against Alex Oliveira at UFC 272.
However, Cowboy was very game and actually had moments where he hurt Holland in the first round. Almost got himself a submission as well. But, Holland really turned things around in the second round when he rocked and stopped Oliveira to pick up the big TKO win.
What’s next after UFC 272?
After his successful debut, I think Holland needs to get right back after it. Knowing Holland, the UFC is likely going to book him a fight sooner than later given the fact that he loves to stay active.
I don’t think he’s going to get a ranked opponent next, but the opponent I have in mind would be perfect. After this win, I think the UFC should pair him up with the entertaining Daniel Rodriguez (16-2).
Outside of a controversial decision loss, Rodriguez has nearly been perfect in the UFC. He’s riding a three-fight winning streak and would bring an entertaining fight to Holland. Pair these two up on the main card of a PPV and you have the perfect ingredients for a banger and fight of the night.