Max Holloway Wants to Topple UFC 300 Moment by Stopping Conor McGregor at UFC 329

Max Holloway has been a part of countless battles, however, his UFC 300 knockout over Justin Gaethje undoubtedly stands as the best one.


Max Holloway Wants to Topple UFC 300 Moment by Stopping Conor McGregor at UFC 329

Max Holloway wants a knockout win over Conor McGregor (via Bloody Elbow)

Max Holloway has spent 14 years delivering memorable battles inside the UFC Octagon, establishing himself as one of the sport’s finest strikers throughout his remarkable career. His knockout win over Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 remains the defining moment of his career. Now, preparing for his UFC 329 rematch against Conor McGregor, the Hawaiian veteran hopes to deliver an even greater performance.

Holloway controlled the five-round BMF title fight at UFC 300 with sharp boxing, spinning attacks, and relentless pressure while repeatedly hurting Gaethje. He even broke Gaethje’s nose early before surviving the first knockdown of his UFC career in the fourth round. Despite leading comfortably, Holloway chose to trade in the closing seconds to score a stunning last-second knockout to capture the BMF title.

The fight earned the 2024 Fight of the Year, Knockout of the Year, and Performance of the Year honors, becoming one of UFC 300’s defining moments. The victory elevated Holloway’s legacy and cemented his reputation as one of MMA’s most exciting fighters. With his rematch against McGregor approaching, Holloway now hopes to create an even bigger moment on July 11th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

I’m just chasing a moment that beats 300, to be honest. That 300 moment that I had, that’s what I’m chasing, or even to recreate. Just get close to that moment, do it against Conor McGregor, with how many eyes? This is a huge event. You see how big. How many eyes is on this one? Oh my God, it’s going to be insane. That’s what I’m chasing, man. I’m chasing that high. I really want another moment like that. If I can put him face down, that would be great.

Max Holloway via FREESTYLEBENDER

Holloway’s devastating UFC 300 knockout left Gaethje contemplating retirement afterward. The American previously believed a knockout of that magnitude would end his career. However, ‘The Highlight’ has now rebounded by defeating Ilia Topuria to capture the lightweight title at UFC Freedom 250.

Holloway has also expressed confidence that McGregor will accept his request for a stand-and-bang exchange at UFC 329. The Hawaiian believes the Irishman will embrace that style, setting the stage for another striking showcase. Holloway has also predicted he will finish McGregor by knockout.

It is important to note that McGregor is returning after nearly five years away from the UFC Octagon. However, the former two-division champion believes the extended layoff gives him a significant advantage over Holloway, who has absorbed considerable damage throughout his lengthy career.

McGregor has promised to deliver a masterpiece at UFC 329, believing he is entering the fight in peak condition. The Irish superstar credits his lengthy recovery and preparation for that confidence. A win over Holloway would complete one of the biggest comebacks in UFC history.

Max Holloway enters his rematch with McGregor after losing the BMF title to Charles Oliveira at UFC 326, ending his latest championship run. As he looks to surpass his iconic UFC 300 finish, a stronger and more powerful version of “Blessed” could emerge at 170 pounds on July 11th at UFC 329.

Max Holloway hilariously gives fans a reality check regarding his fighting style

Over the years, Max Holloway has produced some of the most exciting fights in the UFC Octagon with his relentless striking. The Hawaiian veteran has consistently delivered memorable performances and holds the UFC record for the most significant strikes landed, with 3,681 across his remarkable career.

Despite his elite striking, Holloway has never enjoyed the same level of success with his grappling and wrestling inside the Octagon. The Hawaiian has openly discussed that aspect of his game in the past. He revealed he skipped wrestling in high school because he did not want to wear a singlet.

Max Holloway's wrestling regret
Max Holloway’s wrestling regret (via Bloody Elbow)

Holloway’s wrestling limitations were evident in his most recent fight, where Charles Oliveira controlled the action to claim the BMF title at UFC 326. Oliveira secured multiple takedowns and accumulated 20 minutes of ground control, neutralizing Holloway’s striking throughout the contest.

Holloway’s loss to Oliveira drew criticism because the grappling-heavy contest clashed with the BMF title’s symbolism. However, it also highlighted how easily “Do Bronx” controlled him on the ground. Ahead of UFC 329 against Conor McGregor, Holloway has seemingly given himself a reality check.

My fight style, I would say, is striker through and through. If anybody had any questions about my grappling, you guys got that answer in the last fight.

Max Holloway via his YouTube channel

The first meeting between Holloway and McGregor ended with the Irishman earning a unanimous decision at UFC Fight Night 26. After injuring his knee, McGregor relied on wrestling, securing four takedowns against Holloway. Their UFC 329 rematch could reveal whether Holloway has addressed those shortcomings.

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