Dricus Du Plessis has highlighted Conor McGregor's 'scary timing' and 'sneaky power' as key factors in his upcoming UFC comeback against Max Holloway. The two-time UFC champion returns at International Fight Week after a five-year absence, following a career-threatening leg break in his trilogy with Dustin Poirier.
McGregor vs Holloway: A Rematch 13 Years in the Making
McGregor and Holloway first fought at UFC Fight Night 26 in August 2013, with McGregor winning by decision. Now, 13 years later, they clash again. The 37-year-old Irishman and the 34-year-old Holloway had to be separated during Thursday's press conference after McGregor threw Holloway's sunglasses into the crowd.
McGregor is tipped to make a winning return, and Du Plessis believes the double champion possesses a unique skill set. He told Betway: 'Max Holloway, massive fan, love him. He's a great fighter and he's deserving of everything he's gotten, and all the praise. But I can't go against Conor. I honestly believe Conor has that scary timing - everybody that has fought him says that. And he has that sneaky power.'
Du Plessis: 'It Just Takes One'
Du Plessis emphasized McGregor's one-punch knockout ability, referencing Ilia Topuria's recent KO of Holloway. 'Everybody that fights him says that when he hits you, you feel it. It just takes one. Ilia knocked out Max, so it can be done. I don't know what Conor is doing for that tank, but he needs to figure that out because Max Holloway does not stop.'
McGregor vowed to deliver a violent performance at the press conference: 'I'm in my prime now and forever. Bring it on, Saturday night, you're going to see. You're gonna see violence, you're gonna see a ferocious man. I don't need to prove anything to you, it's myself I'm proving this to.'
Holloway Responds: 'We're Getting Ready for a Dangerous Conor McGregor'
Holloway, the former BMF title-holder, beat Poirier last July but lost to Charles Oliveira at UFC 326 in March. He claimed he is ready for the best version of McGregor: 'I believe him, he's doing all the right things, he found God, we're getting ready for a dangerous Conor McGregor.'
McGregor dismissed Holloway's talk of a trilogy, calling it disrespectful and economically motivated. 'I find it disrespectful (that Holloway wants a trilogy), I find it shows he is here for the economics of it. He must not realise the danger he is in. I forecast Holloway's retirement, not a trilogy for cash.'
Co-Main Event: Paddy Pimblett vs Benoit Saint-Denis
The card also features Liverpool lightweight Paddy Pimblett in the co-main event against Benoit Saint-Denis, as he looks to rebound from his loss to Justin Gaethje.
