Holly Holm, a former UFC champion celebrated for her historic victory over Ronda Rousey, has decided to return to boxing after an extensive hiatus. Following her departure from the UFC and a short-lived association with Global Fight League (GFL), Holm signed with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) in May 2025. Her first match since leaving MMA will be against undefeated Yolanda Vega in a lightweight contest. This marks her return to boxing after her last fight in 2013, where she triumphed over Mary McGee. With an impressive boxing record of 33-2-3 and numerous title defenses across three weight categories, Holm aims to conquer a fourth division and potentially face the winner of the upcoming bout between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor.
Co-founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, MVP has already established itself as a platform for high-profile boxing matches. As part of this promotion, Holm is set to compete on June 28 alongside Jake Paul, who will face Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Fans eagerly anticipate Holm’s performance, drawing parallels to her past successes both in boxing and MMA, including notable victories over fighters like Ronda Rousey, Yana Santos, and Juliana Werner.
A Return to Roots: Holly Holm's Transition Back to Boxing
Holly Holm's decision to transition back to boxing represents not only a personal milestone but also a strategic move in her athletic career. After concluding her tenure with the UFC and facing uncertainty with GFL, Holm found a new home with MVP. This partnership offers her the opportunity to reignite her boxing legacy, showcasing skills honed over decades. Her first matchup since re-entering the ring will test her endurance and adaptability against a formidable opponent in Yolanda Vega. This bout signifies more than just a comeback; it is a testament to her resilience and determination to excel once again.
Holm’s journey back to boxing reflects her commitment to conquering uncharted territories within the sport. Her previous achievements, such as defending titles across multiple weight classes and defeating legendary opponents, lay the groundwork for this next phase. Returning to the ring after nearly a decade provides challenges but also immense potential. Holm must adjust to modern boxing techniques and strategies while maintaining her signature fighting style. The matchup against Vega serves as a crucial stepping stone toward achieving her ultimate goal of competing against top-tier boxers like Amanda Serrano or Katie Taylor. Fans are captivated by her ability to blend experience with innovation, making this comeback all the more exciting.
MVP: A Platform for Revitalizing Careers
Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) plays a pivotal role in revitalizing veteran athletes' careers, including Holly Holm's. Since its inception in 2021, MVP has become renowned for hosting captivating boxing events that attract global attention. By signing Holm, the promotion underscores its dedication to fostering competitive matchups involving seasoned professionals. Pairing Holm with Yolanda Vega highlights their strategy of creating compelling narratives around each event, ensuring maximum engagement from audiences worldwide.
The collaboration between Holm and MVP extends beyond individual success stories; it symbolizes a broader trend in combat sports where experienced fighters find renewed opportunities through innovative promotions. Co-founder Jake Paul’s involvement in organizing high-profile bouts further amplifies these efforts. His own participation in fights, including an upcoming match against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., demonstrates the dynamic nature of MVP. For Holm, joining MVP means accessing resources and exposure necessary to achieve her ambitions in boxing. The organization's support could propel her towards future matchups against elite boxers, solidifying her place among contemporary legends. This synergy between athlete and promoter exemplifies how strategic partnerships can redefine career trajectories in professional sports.