​Conor McGregor is preparing for his long-awaited return from a five-year layoff to face Max Holloway in a rematch scheduled for Sunday in Las Vegas. The Irish superstar previously defeated Holloway, then 34, when they clashed as featherweights back in 2013, but this time he will compete as a welterweight at UFC 329. McGregor, a former featherweight and lightweight champion, is coming off a rough stretch, having won just one of his last four fights and securing only two wins in the past decade. Holloway, who also held the featherweight title, will be stepping up to welterweight for the first time in search of redemption after a loss to McGregor.
The big question on everyone’s mind is whether McGregor can mark his comeback with a victory, or if Holloway will exact revenge on the Irishman. You can follow all the action from 03:00 GMT on Sunday, 12 July, on the BBC Sport website and app. BBC Sport gathered predictions from across the MMA world.
One analyst noted that McGregor faces a tough test against an active foe like Holloway, but emphasized that McGregor’s power remains a factor and could lead to a one-shot finish. There’s also the possibility that Holloway could pick him apart and stay elusive, yet the predictor favored a McGregor win, probably by knockout in the opening round, believing McGregor will land a decisive left hand.
Another expert highlighted McGregor’s experience with big moments despite five years away, suggesting the champion will come out aggressively. The prediction anticipated some early trouble for Holloway, but ultimately expected McGregor to survive the first round, with the fight turning increasingly difficult as it progresses, and suggested McGregor might just edge through to the end, though there was a sense Holloway could outlast him.
A third voice offered a 50/50 take, arguing that while a defeat for Holloway could be possible given Conor’s recent form, Holloway’s own resilience and grappling capabilities could pose problems for McGregor if the fight extends beyond the early rounds. The forecast leaned toward Holloway, noting that Holloway was toppled by Charles Oliveira, a formidable opponent, but suggesting McGregor’s grappling is not on Oliveira’s level and could leave him vulnerable if the bout goes to the later stages.
Another fan-notebook perspective on the MightyCast podcast stated a desire to enjoy the spectacle without bias, expressing affection for both fighters, given the Irish connection and admiration for Holloway. The prediction in that chat leaned toward Holloway in a late stoppage, possibly around round four, though a decision could occur if McGregor is in exceptional shape and manages to reach the final bell. The belief was that McGregor would be dangerous in the early exchanges but would gradually fade, allowing Holloway to seize control as McGregor tires.
In short, the predictions split, with conversations ranging from a fast, decisive McGregor finish to a protracted battle where Holloway’s volume and resilience could carry the day. The conversation around this highly anticipated rematch continues as fans look forward to what promises to be a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers.