“That’s a real life BMF” – Max Holloway wants Mark Coleman to present the BMF title at UFC 300 after veteran survives near-fatal fire accident

Ahead of his highly anticipated lightweight bout against former interim UFC champion and current BMF titleholder Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 on April 13, 2024, former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway has proposed that Mark Coleman be the one to present the BMF title to the victor.

To date, there have only been two bouts that have showcased the prestigious BMF title. The initial match saw Jorge Masvidal defeat Nate Diaz by way of a third-round TKO in November 2019. Adding to the excitement, WWE legend and global superstar Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson made a special appearance and presented Masvidal with the belt post-fight.

In 2023, after Masvidal announced his retirement, Justin Gaethje became the new BMF champion. He achieved this by knocking out Dustin Poirier in the second round of their rematch in July. Masvidal, who was the guest of honor for the fight, presented Gaethje with the BMF title.

During his interview with MMA Junkie, Max Holloway was questioned about his preference for who presents the BMF title to him if he emerges victorious at UFC 300. In response, Holloway conveyed his admiration for Mark Coleman, a revered figure in both UFC and Pride FC. He remarked that it would be a privilege to have ‘The Hammer’ place the BMF belt around his waist, further emphasizing his gratitude by stating:

“The only correct answer is Mark Coleman, man, especially with what he went through recently, with his dog, and his dog waking up, and his dog waking him up to go save his stuff. And he go in there and run for his dog. Guy’s a ‘G,’ bro. That’s a real-life BMF. So, I mean, that’s the only right answer, man.”

In addition, he stated:

“I think they [UFC] used him in that little promo video, too, right? Facing off with ‘DC’ [Daniel Cormier], right? Yeah? That picture? Yeah, they did. So, maybe that’s a hint. Maybe, he comes. Would be sick if he did it. It would be an honor to get him to do it.”

Take a look at what Holloway had to say at the timestamp of 9:05 in the video below:

Mark Coleman’s Inspirational Return to the Gym After Fire Accident and Tribute to Heroic Dog ‘Hammer’

On the night of March 12, 2024, Mark Coleman heroically saved his aging parents from their burning home. His faithful dog, Hammer, who shared his name with Coleman’s own nickname, played a vital role in alerting him to the fire, for which Coleman expressed his gratitude.

Although Coleman, who is 59 years old, successfully saved his parents, he lost consciousness while attempting to go back into the house to rescue his dog.

Sadly, the brave dog succumbed to smoke inhalation. However, Mark Coleman also suffered from severe smoke inhalation but was able to make a full recovery after being hospitalized. Additionally, Coleman impressively returned to the gym just a week after the incident.

Currently, it remains unclear whether the Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway BMF title fight will feature Mark Coleman as the special guest presenting the belt to the winner at UFC 300. In response, Coleman shared a post on his official Instagram account regarding Holloway’s remarks.