Conor McGregor will make his long-awaited return to the cage this summer when he takes on Max Holloway in a rematch of their 2013 clash, with the fight rules appearing to favour the Irishman. The pair first met 13 years ago in Boston, where McGregor outpointed the Hawaiian despite suffering a knee injury during the bout. McGregor went on to capture world titles at featherweight and lightweight, while Holloway also became featherweight world champion.
Weight Class Advantage
However, McGregor’s inactivity over the past five years—since breaking his leg in the first round of his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier—could be a significant factor. Yet, he receives a boost as the fight will be contested at welterweight (170lb) on July 11. McGregor has fought at 170lb on three occasions: twice against Nate Diaz in 2016 and once against Donald Cerrone six years ago. He later returned to lightweight for his second and third bouts with Poirier but has since bulked up. In contrast, Holloway has never fought at welterweight; he has competed four times at 155lb, including a defeat to Charles Oliveira earlier this year.
Stamina and KO Power
McGregor earned a reputation as a knockout artist and has not gone the distance since his rematch with Diaz a decade ago. While his clash with Holloway is expected to end early, the Dubliner may struggle with stamina should it go the distance, given his prolonged absence from the sport. Holloway, known for his incredible cardio, could capitalise if the fight extends beyond the early rounds.
Recent Setbacks and Return
McGregor had been scheduled to return against Michael Chandler in 2024, but the fight was cancelled when the former champion sustained a broken toe. In October 2024, McGregor accepted an 18-month doping ban, backdated to September 2024, for three failures of the whereabouts system, but he is now eligible to compete again. Last year, McGregor lost his appeal against a civil jury’s finding in favour of Dublin woman Nikita Hand, who accused him of rape.
UFC 329 Card
British star Paddy Pimblett is also on the card for UFC 329, taking on Benoit Saint Denis in the lightweight division, and will be joined by fellow Brit Lone'er Kavanagh, who faces Brandon Royval. The event promises a night of high-stakes action as McGregor seeks to reignite his career against a formidable opponent.
