Kevin Holland Aims for 38 UFC Fights Before Retirement

Milestones on the Octagon Floor

Kevin Holland, a 33‑year‑old fighter, carries a mixed‑martial‑arts record of 19 wins and 15 losses, with 16 victories inside the UFC. After carving out a 16‑12 UFC ledger, he now sights a modest target rather than chasing the top spot on the appearance list. The current leader, Jim Miller, has logged 47 fights while still competing, and former heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski sits second with 42. Holland believes he can at least match Donald Cerrone’s 38‑fight mark, a number he says Cerrone achieved with a smoother path.

Holland recently told MMA Junkie Radio that his next bout will be the 30th UFC fight, and his long‑term goal is to reach roughly 38 contests. He fights two or three times a year, keeping the schedule sustainable, and estimates that eight or nine more appearances after his next fight will bring him to that goal. The 33‑year‑old views this pacing as a way to exit the sport before age becomes a limiting factor. His focus remains on accumulating wins, learning from past fighters, and staying balanced between competition and personal life.

Upcoming Clash with Jacobe Smith

Holland’s next appearance is booked for UFC Fight Night 281 on July 18 in Oklahoma City, where he will face Jacobe Smith. Smith, a former Oklahoma State University wrestler, arrives with an unbeaten record of 12‑0 in MMA and 3‑0 inside the UFC. Fans have already circled this matchup, adding to a pattern of buzz around Holland’s fight selections throughout his career. The bout underscores Holland’s reputation for taking on intriguing opponents rather than chasing title shots.

The fighter has repeatedly stated that winning a championship belt was never his primary objective. Instead, he prefers to “have a blast,” stay true to himself, and eventually “surf off into the sunset with the kids.” Holland admits he never felt destined to become a role model beyond his own children, and he values the freedom to compete on his own terms. This philosophy has guided him through a career filled with notable fight counts rather than championship glory.

Retirement Plans and Legacy Vision

Holland’s narrative also includes aspirations that echo legends like Floyd Mayweather and Khabib Nurmagomedov—ending a career undefeated and enjoying life after the cage. He acknowledges that the fighting opportunities placed before him are not always perfect, but he embraces them, saying he “snatches that up and keeps it f*cking pushing.” His mindset reflects a desire to finish strong, with his target of 38 UFC fights serving as a clear milestone for when to call it a day. This approach positions him as a fighter who values experience, consistency, and personal fulfillment over traditional measures of success.