Conor McGregor Promises His ‘Prime’ Version and Questions Max Holloway’s Wars Over the Years

Irish UFC superstar Conor McGregor reveals the advantage he holds over Max Holloway heading into their rematch at UFC 329.

Conor McGregor Promises His ‘Prime’ Version and Questions Max Holloway’s Wars Over the Years

Conor McGregor reveals Max Holloway challenge (via Instagram, Reuters)

Conor McGregor remains one of MMA’s biggest global influences. Widely known for his trash talk and personality, the Irishman also became famous for his flashy striking style. However, his five-year absence raised doubts about whether the former double champion could regain top form. McGregor has now dismissed those concerns, insisting the lengthy layoff gives him the advantage at UFC 329.

McGregor last competed in 2021, suffering a leg injury against Dustin Poirier during their trilogy fight. The defeat ended with fractures to his left fibia and tibula, forcing a lengthy recovery. He was scheduled to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 following their coaching roles on The Ultimate Fighter 31. However, the Irishman withdrew two weeks before the event after sustaining a toe injury during training.

McGregor now returns at UFC 329 against Max Holloway, nearly 13 years after their first meeting in 2013. Holloway remained active throughout those years, competing in multiple championship bouts and holding the BMF title until UFC 326. However, he lost that belt to Charles Oliveira. As such, McGregor believes Holloway’s activity does not provide any advantage heading into their second clash.

I look at my rest period that I’ve had. Whereas I look at other competitions in the space, including my opponent, and I feel a lot more fresher than these opponents. I’ve had my time of rest. I feel I’m coming into my prime now. I’m only entering my prime. That is my mindset going in here.

Conor McGregor via UFC on Paramount

Holloway absorbed significant damage during several high-profile fights over recent years. He battled Justin Gaethje for five rounds before scoring a last-second knockout victory at UFC 300. However, his next appearance ended with the first knockout loss of his career against Ilia Topuria at UFC 308. Although Holloway defeated Poirier by decision at UFC 318, Oliveira dominated him on the ground at UFC 326.

UFC 329 will take place at welterweight, adding another twist to the long-awaited rematch. McGregor has previous experience at 170 pounds, including both fights against Nate Diaz and his UFC 246 knockout win over Donald Cerrone. However, Holloway will make his welterweight debut at UFC 329. Questions remain over whether the Hawaiian’s power will translate in the heavier division.

Conor McGregor has trained for months ahead of UFC 329, regularly sharing footage from his preparation. ‘The Notorious One’ also participated in an amateur boxing match at Crumlin Boxing Club before his return. The former two divisional champion has promised a prime version of himself at UFC 329. His comeback against Max Holloway will reveal whether those claims become reality.

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Conor McGregor reveals how he is at an advantage despite 2021 leg injury

Conor McGregor’s injury at UFC 264 was a moment that no one expected inside the Octagon. Fans were waiting for his comeback after his UFC 257 knockout loss to Dustin Poirier. The trilogy fight carried major expectations from the opening bell. However, it ended in dramatic fashion after McGregor suffered a serious leg injury. He was escorted out on a stretcher with an ankle brace holding his broken leg together.

Conor McGregor's leg injury
Conor McGregor’s leg injury (via The New York Post)

McGregor’s injury at UFC 264 was widely viewed as one of the most brutal moments in UFC history. His lower leg snapped as he stepped back at the end of the first round. The foot folded awkwardly on live television, immediately signaling a serious fracture. Despite the severity, McGregor has used the recovery period to rebuild strength and mindset ahead of his UFC 329 rematch with Max Holloway.

I always say, ‘An injury is not just a process of recovery, it’s a process of discovery.’ You uncover a lot about yourself. You uncover a lot about your frame, body, movements, and mechanics. Everything happens for a reason. It will bring longevity to my career.

Conor McGregor via UFC on Paramount

However, recent reporting from The New York Times has linked allegations surrounding Conor McGregor’s recovery from his UFC 264 leg injury to possible PED use during rehabilitation.

McGregor has publicly defended himself against the claims, denying any wrongdoing during his rehabilitation process. No official governing body has issued any confirmed sanction or violation related to the allegations.

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