The formula for triumph involves a dash of Batman and a jolt of Toy Story.
Mixed Martial Arts events carry a high entertainment value in Germany. Before battles, there's an abundance of verbal hype, and afterwards, combatants display respect towards each other. Max Holzer, a German MMA fighter, knowingly entertains fans with his unique style, both within and outside the fighting arena.
MMA is still growing in popularity among German youth, and fighters like Max Holzer are embracing their newfound careers. Only 22 years old, Holzer has an impressive unbeaten professional record, having won all eight of his fights. Looking to continue this streak, Holzer is scheduled to compete in Oktagon 60 on September 7 in Oberhausen.
Holzer places emphasis on showmanship outside the cage, regardless of whether he's interacting with fans on social media or in a packed arena. To heighten the competition, he once sent a bottle with a challenge to an opponent, asking "Do you want to fight me? Yes/No/Maybe." Regularly, he chooses eye-catching entrances, from Batman to Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story. He explained his choice of attire to ntv.de, admitting, "I base it on my opponents. My opponent Corey Fry looked like Post Malone, so I entered as Buzz Lightyear. My last opponent, Eemil Kurhela, had something of Superman, so I entered as Batman." Both instances resulted in dominant victories via submission.
Self-promotion is now an integral component of an MMA fighter's job, according to Holzer. "But it has its own boundaries. Fights shouldn't become circus-like spectacles; the sport itself should remain the focus."
Embracing the Unconventional
Holzer's unconventional approach sets him apart from other competitors. "Opponents frequently aren't aware of the strategies I'm employing because I'm uncertain myself," he admitted. While he prepares for opponents, he strives to maintain an open mind. He explained, "In fights, things rarely unfold as planned. Of course, there's a game plan, but I'm always willing to completely alter it. Spontaneity is crucial in MMA."
Over the past four years, Holzer has undergone significant changes. "I don't just live day by day like others my age. My life and spare time revolve primarily around the sport. It's transformed into a lifestyle." Holzer's dedication has benefited him financially; he now earns a living entirely from the sport. Despite his undefeated record, Holzer does not aim for ambitious goals just yet. "In MMA, it's challenging to set ambitious goals. But of course, I desire to expand my winning streak."
Legat in Sight
Holzer, however, has one particular goal in mind: dueling against Torsten Legat, who is renowned for his Dschungelcamp appearances and football career. "I genuinely want to fight him. I don't know much about his TV appearances or football exploits. He was scheduled to compete at a German event once, but he ultimately failed to show up after spouting motivational one-liners. I am here to hold Torsten Legat accountable. Age won't protect him."
Before confronting Torsten Legat, Holzer will first face Polish competitor Pascal Hintzen during Oktagon 60. Both fighters excel in ground combat, but Holzer is confidant in his all-around abilities. "It's more likely that I'll knock him out rather than defeat him through a submission."
Hintzen competes under the ring name "Daywalker," a nod to the "Blade" vampire film series. Holzer has no intention of entering the arena with a garlic wreath surrounding him. "I have something far better planned. But it has nothing to do with the opponent. I can't reveal any further details at the moment." Holzer often requests permission to make such appearances from the promoter, as they are usually discouraged. "However, I believe I now have a free pass."
Mixed martial arts (MMA) has become a lucrative career path for young athletes like Max Holzer, who has maintained an impressive unbeaten record in eight professional fights. Self-promotion is now an essential part of an MMA fighter's job, and Holzer uses his unique style both in and out of the cage to stand out from his competitors.
Holzer's upcoming fight against Pascal Hintzen at Oktagon 60 in Oberhausen on September 7 will be another opportunity for him to entertain fans with his unconventional approach and eye-catching entrances. Despite their shared focus on ground combat, Holzer is confident about his chances of securing a knockout victory.
