European MMA returns to Germany for a blockbuster night of action as OKTAGON MMA touches down at the ZAG Arena in Hannover. Scheduled for November 7, 2026, OKTAGON 97: Severino vs. Holzer promises high-stakes championship drama, crucial divisional matchups, and a unique family dynamic that rarely unfolds on a single fight card.
With a reigning bantamweight king looking to cement his legacy and an undefeated hometown hero dropping down a weight class for a shot at gold, the stage is set for a memorable night in front of a passionate German crowd.
Event Details
- Date: November 7, 2026
- Venue: ZAG Arena
- Location: Hannover, Germany
- Promotion: OKTAGON MMA
- Broadcast: OKTAGON.TV (Pay-Per-View) and DAZN
Main Event: Bantamweight Gold on the Line
The marquee attraction of the evening features a clash of youth, momentum, and contrasting journeys as 23-year-old bantamweight champion Igor “Cogumelo” Severino (10-1, 1 NC) defends his title against 24-year-old undefeated challenger Max “Stifler” Holzer (12-0).
Severino, training out of Chute Boxe João Emilio, has successfully rebuilt his career under the OKTAGON banner. Following an infamous UFC release in 2024, the Brazilian captured the vacant OKTAGON bantamweight title in March 2026 by stopping Khurshed Kakhorov. After his first title defense ended in a No Contest due to an accidental low blow, Severino is eager to secure a definitive victory and prove he is the undisputed king of the division.
Standing in his way is Max Holzer, a natural featherweight who is making the bold decision to drop down to bantamweight for this championship opportunity. Fighting out of Fightschool Hannover, Holzer will have the backing of his adopted hometown. Known for his lethal grappling and finishing instincts—boasting 10 stoppages in 12 wins—Holzer recently made waves with a sensational first-round knockout over UFC veteran Khalid Taha. Fans should also keep an eye out for Holzer’s walkout; the “Walkout King” has previously entered the arena dressed as Batman, Buzz Lightyear, and even riding a scooter.
Co-Main Event: Featherweight Contenders Collide
The co-main event delivers a pivotal matchup at the top of the featherweight division, as #4-ranked former title challenger Gjoni Palokaj squares off against #3-ranked Zafar Mohsen.
This bout arrives with significant bad blood, following months of heated exchanges between the two contenders. With both men eyeing a shot at the featherweight crown, this high-stakes clash will likely determine the next logical challenger for the divisional title. Expect a fierce, tactical battle as both fighters look to back up their pre-fight talk under the bright lights.
A Tale of Two Families
In a rare occurrence for professional mixed martial arts, OKTAGON 97 will feature two pairs of brothers competing on the same card. The main event participants will both be joined by their siblings on the undercard.
Matheus Severino (15-5), Igor’s older brother and a former titleholder in three Brazilian organizations, continues his push into the European scene as he takes on Abdul Badakhshi. Meanwhile, Max Holzer’s younger brother, Jan Holzer, will make his highly anticipated professional MMA debut against Ján Švagerko in a welterweight contest. The dual-family dynamic adds a fascinating layer of emotional stakes to the event.
Featured Main Card Battles
The main card is bolstered by several intriguing matchups designed to deliver action. At a catchweight of 72kg, Ozan Aslaner will face off against the always-entertaining Denis “The Menace” Frimpong. Frimpong’s striking and showmanship will be tested against Aslaner’s gritty determination.
Additionally, the featherweight division takes center stage again when Karol “Bomby” Ryšavý meets Samuel Bark. Both men are known for their aggressive striking styles, making this a strong candidate for Fight of the Night honors.
Complete Confirmed Fight Card
While the bout order is subject to final adjustments, the current confirmed lineup for OKTAGON 97 includes:
- Bantamweight Championship: Igor Severino (c) vs. Max Holzer
- Featherweight: Gjoni Palokaj vs. Zafar Mohsen
- Catchweight (72kg): Ozan Aslaner vs. Denis Frimpong
- Featherweight: Karol Ryšavý vs. Samuel Bark
- Middleweight: Justin Detzel vs. Kacper Frątczak
- Welterweight: Daniel Makin vs. Petr Bartoněk
- Featherweight: Haci Akseker vs. Jonatan Kujawa
- Welterweight: Jan Holzer vs. Ján Švagerko
- Undisclosed Weight: Matheus Severino vs. Abdul Badakhshi
