Conor McGregor predicts spectacular Max Holloway demolition in UFC return
Former two-division champion Conor McGregor has promised a clinical demolition of Max Holloway when he makes his long-awaited UFC return in Las Vegas on 11 July.
The 37-year-old will step into the octagon at UFC 329 for a welterweight showdown, ending a five-year absence from the sport.
He has not competed since suffering a broken leg during a first-round defeat to long-time rival Dustin Poirier at UFC 264.
A planned comeback against Michael Chandler two years ago was ultimately derailed by a training injury.
Targeting a spectacular comeback
Despite the lengthy hiatus, the Irishman insists he is fully prepared to make up for lost time in Nevada.
Speaking to former American football player Nate Burleson, the Dublin-born fighter confidently predicted a devastating finish.
“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.”
Revisiting a decade-old rivalry
Next month’s headline clash will be the second time these two renowned strikers have traded blows.
They previously met early in their respective promotional careers back in 2013, with McGregor securing a unanimous decision victory in Boston.
Since that initial encounter, the Hawaiian veteran has captured both the undisputed featherweight championship and the ceremonial ‘BMF’ title.
However, the former dual-weight champion remains unconvinced by his upcoming opponent’s evolution inside the cage.
“Is he really? I do not really see it. I do not really see vast improvements.”
“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.”
Future welterweight ambitions
Looking beyond July, the controversial striker plans to remain highly active in the 170lb division.
He remains open to launching a renewed title run and has welcomed a potential future match-up with lightweight contender 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.”
“I am open for business. I wish for activity. I have got a great fight in front of me.”
