Conor McGregor has promised a 'demolition' in his upcoming fight against Max Holloway at UFC 329 on July 11. The former two-division UFC champion will make his long-awaited return to the cage for the first time in five years when he faces Holloway in a welterweight showdown in Las Vegas.
McGregor has not fought since breaking his leg in a first-round defeat to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021. He was due to make a comeback two years ago against Michael Chandler but was forced to pull out after suffering an injury in training. Many were sceptical about his return, but after the Holloway clash was confirmed, the 37-year-old vowed to make up for lost time.
McGregor's Bold Prediction
Speaking to former American football star Nate Burleson, McGregor declared: "It's going to be a demolition. I know the damage he has taken. I know I will just have to touch him, and after that, it will be clinical. A win alone is not just enough. It must be spectacular and that is what it will be."
The two stars previously met at the start of their UFC careers in 2013, with McGregor scoring a decision win in Boston. Since then, Holloway has won the featherweight title and the 'BMF' belt, but McGregor believes his opponent has not improved since their first meeting.
McGregor Dismisses Holloway's Improvement
"Is he really? I do not really see it. I do not really see vast improvements," McGregor said of Holloway's evolution. "In fact, the improvements he made, was after the fight he had with me where he adopted some of my moves. Then what did he do? He went on to win the world title. I son'd Max when I fought him last and I plan on doing the same again in more devastating fashion."
McGregor also addressed his future, stating he plans to stay at welterweight and is open to a fight with lightweight champion Justin Gaethje. "For sure (I have it in me to make a title run). I am a 170lb fighter now. I have already held the 155lb, unified, UFC world title," he said. "I am open for business. I wish for activity. I have got a great fight in front of me. Max has flatlined Justin Gaethje, he knocked him out, face down. Justin is ok. When he is on, Justin is ok. When he is bad, he is atrocious. He is woeful. He slaps his punches a lot, but he is very durable and he is unorthodox in his style."
McGregor's Hit List
McGregor hinted at several potential opponents beyond Holloway. "There is a few names (on my hit list). I have just more is activity. I wish to just compete. I want the smoke. I want all the smoke. Bring it all on. I do not rate them. Not on my level, and rather than saying it, and getting into more detail on it, I would rather just show it," he added.
UFC 329 marks a pivotal moment for McGregor, who seeks his first win in six years. The event will be held in Las Vegas, with both fighters eager to settle their long-standing rivalry.
