Max Holloway isn't bothered by Conor McGregor 's provocations , as long as the Irishman honors the agreement and shows up to fight. Scheduled for the main event of UFC 329 on June 29th, 'The Notorious' returns to the Ultimate Fighting Championship after a five-year hiatus for a rematch against the Hawaiian. Despite McGregor claiming he's in good shape for the fight, 'The Blessed' remains skeptical and makes it clear that his main expectation is that his rival will finally honor his commitment.
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Holloway downplayed his opponent's rhetoric and emphasized that the most important thing is his presence in the octagon. The former champion acknowledged McGregor's skill in promoting fights, suggesting that the statements may be part of his mental preparation. Still, he stated that he supports any strategy, as long as the Irishman shows up on fight day.
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“Whatever it is that enters the octagon on Saturday night, keep telling yourself that. Just please show up on Saturday night. Conor has a way with words and loves to talk. Maybe he’s talking to himself to prepare. I support that 100%. I, Max 'Blessed' Holloway, support that message. Keep talking. I can’t wait to see you show up on Saturday night,” said Max Holloway.
Next, the Hawaiian also commented on the criticism he received, especially those questioning his evolution as a fighter. For Holloway, this type of discourse is part of the game, but it doesn't have much relevance. The focus, according to him, is entirely on the fight, emphasizing that only inside the octagon will it be possible to determine who is right.
“He’s saying I’m not a different kind of fighter and blah, blah, blah… it is what it is. Keep telling yourself whatever you need to say. I just need him to come, show up on July 11th and step into that octagon. Then we can find out if he’s right or wrong,” the Hawaiian concluded.
Conor McGregor did not appear at UFC 303.
McGregor celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
The fight against Max Holloway doesn't mark Conor McGregor 's first attempt to return to the spotlight. The Irishman was scheduled to face Michael Chandler in the main event of UFC 303 in June 2024, but was ultimately removed from the card after suffering a toe injury just before the fight.
With McGregor out, Alex Poatan took his place in the main event and put his light heavyweight (up to 93 kg) title on the line against Jiri Prochazka.
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