The UFC’s inaugural double champion is set to return to the octagon this Saturday during International Fight Week, headlining UFC 329 at Las Vegas’s T‑Mobile Arena. Conor McGregor, who has held titles at both featherweight and lightweight, will face former featherweight kingpin Max Holloway in the main event.
After a five‑year absence, McGregor will end his hiatus by confronting another former featherweight champion, revisiting an August 2013 bout that he previously won by unanimous decision.
The co‑main card features a lightweight showdown as rising star Paddy Pimblett faces Benoît Saint Denis, two promising contenders in the division.
Coach Din Thomas and a host of UFC 329 fighters share their predictions and insights ahead of the headline bout.
Expert take
Fighters’ takes
“Conor’s chance to win hinges on an early performance. If the fight extends beyond the first two rounds, I expect Max to gain the upper hand,” Paddy Pimblett said.
“This is a monumental matchup that will put Conor under intense scrutiny. After such a long layoff, I believe the longer the bout goes, the more it favors Max Holloway’s experience,” Benoît Saint Denis noted.
“I respect both fighters greatly, but I think Max will edge out the victory. Conditioning will be decisive, and Conor’s extended break could be a disadvantage,” Cory Sandhagen observed.
“I’m backing Max Holloway. The longer the fight endures, the more it plays to his strengths,” Mario Bautista said.
“I’m torn. My half‑Irish heritage pushes me to support Conor, yet I’ve admired Max Holloway since I was a child. Regardless of the outcome, I’m simply thrilled to watch this clash,” Lone’er Kavanagh explained.
“I’m essentially torn, 50/50. Conor’s weight class eliminates the need for a cut, which seems to favor him, yet Max has been consistently active, staying in the gym and sharpening his craft. Conor emerged from a prolonged hiatus, while Max has kept fighting and refining his skills. Though I lean toward the fighter who’s kept his work ethic—Max—I recognize Conor’s timing remains his hallmark. He’s said timing is everything; as long as his sense of when to strike is intact, he can land shots, but whether those shots are powerful enough before his stamina wanes is the crucial question,” King Green stated.
“Unless Conor secures an early victory within the first two rounds, I anticipate Max will deliver a decisive win, either by decision or a fourth‑round stoppage,” Terrance McKinney predicted.
The contest presents numerous uncertainties. McGregor’s extended absence means his competitive edge may have dulled, and his recent training outside the cage is unverifiable, which could affect his performance. Additionally, his recovery from a severe leg injury and the natural effects of time can alter a fighter’s capabilities. Max’s transition to the 170‑lb division introduces another unknown, as Holloway’s cardio‑based, high‑volume style may adapt differently at that weight. I’m backing Max because of his proven durability and consistent five‑round fights; he’s battle‑tested and accustomed to the grind. Conversely, I think Conor’s prolonged hiatus from competition will impact his conditioning. While his confidence, skill, and knockout power remain unquestioned, the hunger that once drove his dominant runs appears to have faded alongside his fame and earnings,” Robert Whittaker commented.
“I respect both athletes immensely, yet Conor’s prolonged absence from competition is a key factor to consider. While he may have trained, he hasn’t experienced fight‑day pressure like Max, who’s been competing regularly. Based on that, I project a Max victory via decision,” Elisha Ellison commented.
“Growing up, I idolized Conor McGregor; sharing a card with the legend is an honor. Max Holloway is also an icon. Despite my admiration for Conor, I’ll be backing Max in this bout,” Gable Steveson said.
