VIDEO: Relive the first fight between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway in the UFC.

McGregor's start in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

PUBLICITY:

O UFC 329 will be led by the long-awaited reunion between Conor McGregor e Max Holloway, two of the most Wines of their generation. When they first faced each other in 2013, both were still seeking their place in the event. Almost 13 years later, they return to share the octagon as former champions and protagonists of some of the most memorable moments in the organization's recent history. (See below for details) What was the first duel between the two like?

The first encounter took place on August 17, 2013, at UFC Fight Night 26 in Boston. At the time, McGregor was making only his second UFC appearance and was riding high after debuting with a victory over Marcus Brimage. Meanwhile, Holloway, then just 21 years old, was still trying to establish himself in the organization and demonstrating that he could compete among the top names in the featherweight division (up to 65,7kg).

See too

Former BMF champion reveals he's 'betting everything' on Max Holloway against Conor McGregor at UFC 329.

Former fighter claims Conor McGregor needs to win at UFC 329: 'Prove the sons of bitches wrong'

UFC champion regrets criticism of Dustin Poirier: 'Not everyone is a jerk'

From the opening minutes, Conor took control of the action. The Irishman found space in the striking exchanges with his trademark straight left punches and varied his kicks well, making it difficult for his opponent to close the distance. In the second round, however, he completely changed his strategy. Instead of insisting on the stand-up fight, he began to rely on takedowns and positional control on the ground, neutralizing the Hawaiian's offensive volume and managing the fight from top position during the second and third rounds.

Even under pressure, Max showed resilience and tried to react whenever he found an opening, but he struggled to escape McGregor's dominance on the ground. With greater control of the action throughout the three rounds, the Irishman confirmed his superiority and won by unanimous decision of the judges, with three scorecards (30-27, 30-27 and 30-26). At that moment, few imagined that the duel between two athletes still present on the preliminary card brought together future UFC champions and two of the biggest names in the organization's recent history.

Video: Relive the first fight between Conor and Holloway

Conor McGregor got the best of a 21 year old Max Holloway despite tearing his ACL in the second round

13 years later, Holloway looks to rewrite history and spoil McGregor's return to the octagon next week at #UFC329 👀

[SAT July 11 | LIVE on @paramountplus ] pic.twitter.com/JKBCykaxsp

— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) July 2, 2026