Several fans and analysts believe that just because Conor McGregor is returning to the octagon after five years, he will be easy game for Max Holloway at UFC 329.
However, the Hawaiian does not think so. During recent interviews, Holloway has stated that McGregor is definitely coming back for something big. Although the Irishman may not be the same fighter he was when he held two UFC titles simultaneously, he is still dangerous.
McGregor, on the other hand, believes the 5-year hiatus after the catastrophic leg injury in 2021 has not only helped him recover, but the time away from the game has refreshed him and that he’s only now entering his prime. “The Notorious” plans to showcase on July 11, in the rematch, that Holloway is not on his level, and at 170 pounds it’s a totally different ball game. The 37-year-old has promised a total demolition come fight night.
Now, Max Holloway has weighed in on what version of Conor McGregor he’s expecting on July 11.
Max Holloway is expecting the best version of Conor McGregor
During a recent interview with MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, Max Holloway opined that although his former opponent has been away from the octagon for nearly half a decade, form is temporary and class is permanent.
The former BMF champ believes Conor McGregor will still possess the same tools that made him a star, and perhaps even some new ones he has developed during his time away. “Blessed” added that while McGregor has often given the impression that he has not been training consistently, and mostly partying and having fun, fans don’t truly know what goes on behind the scenes. He said:
“You have to think he [Conor McGregor] grew up as a fighter too. You have to look at his old stuff… Some things are going to stick around, and he might add some stuff. He’s coming back from a big injury, and there’s a bunch of stuff to include.”
“A lot of people keep counting Conor out, which is insane to me. They are counting Conor out because of the five years… The 5 years he got to rest in my mind. And people are like, ‘No, but like, you see him partying around, you see him doing all this.’ I’m like, ‘Bro, people are not following around 24/7 with a camera.’ So you really don’t know what he’s doing. Just because he’s putting the bad stuff of him, we don’t know about the good stuff.”
Lastly, “Blessed” added that he is excited to fight the best version of “The Notorious” next weekend:
“I’m getting ready for a dangerous Conor McGregor. I think it’s going to be a healthy Conor McGregor. I think it’s the best version we’ve ever seen, and that’s the thing that excites me.”
Check out Max Holloway’s comments below (5:19):
