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Conor McGregor returns after five years away to face the man he beat in 2013, but everything has changed
Thirteen years. That's how long it's been since Conor McGregor and Max Holloway first shared the Octagon, back when both were relative unknowns scrapping on a Fight Night card in Boston. McGregor won that night by decision, but neither man could have imagined the journeys that would follow — McGregor becoming the biggest star in combat sports history, Holloway becoming one of the greatest featherw…
Conor McGregor (22-6) hasn't fought since breaking his leg at UFC 264 in July 2021. His CFR of 85.4 is the highest on the card but reflects historical greatness rather than current form. At 37, ring rust is the biggest question — no fighter has ever returned successfully after this long away. He's moving up to welterweight for this bout.
Max Holloway (27-9) enters as the -270 betting favourite and is making his welterweight debut. His CFR of 59.4 doesn't reflect his true level — his recent activity includes competitive fights against the best in featherweight and lightweight. His volume and cardio have historically been elite, and at 34 he's in the prime of his experience.
McGregor's five-year layoff is the longest for any UFC main eventer returning
Holloway's volume advantage becomes massive if this goes past Round 2
McGregor's left hand at welterweight could be his most powerful ever
Both fighters have concerning chin ratings of 52
The welterweight bout removes McGregor's traditional weight cut advantage
McGregor's power transcends statistics — one clean left hand changes everything
If McGregor has maintained his timing during the layoff, his precision could frustrate Holloway early
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