Bruce Buffer introduces Melk's fight at the UFC. Photo: Press release/Facebook/UFC
The main fight of UFC 329 , scheduled for this Saturday (11), in Las Vegas (USA), continues to be surrounded by expectations in the world of MMA. In an exclusive interview with SUPER LUTAS , during the coverage of Bison Kombat 8 , Melk Costa analyzed the anticipated duel between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway and highlighted the factors that, in his view, could define the winner of the rematch.
Representing Chute Boxe, the Brazilian believes that the momentum favors Holloway, who arrives riding high on an active fight streak. However, Melk emphasized that McGregor's finishing power could completely even the score, even after five years away from the octagon.
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“Let’s be logical, Holloway is a guy who’s in rhythm, Conor has been out for a long time. But there are two points: Holloway isn’t a guy who knocks out with one punch, he’s the guy who builds up the knockout, and besides that, he’s basically moving up three weight classes. He fought at featherweight, moved up to lightweight, that transition isn’t complete yet, and now he’s going to fight at 77 kg,” analyzed the Brazilian.
Melk then stated that McGregor already has a history of fighting in the welterweight division (up to 77 kg), a factor that could make a difference against the Hawaiian. According to him, the power of the Irishman's strikes keeps the fight completely open, especially in the first few minutes.
“Conor is already a natural 77 kg, he’s fought in that weight class before, he has a very heavy hand, he’s a guy with good timing. I believe that if it goes by decision, Holloway wins, but throughout the fight there’s a chance Conor could knock him out. I honestly would really like Conor to win so I can see him fighting Charles,” Melk concluded.
The duel marks McGregor's return to the UFC after five years away from competition and pits two of the biggest names in the organization's recent history against each other.
Melk Costa's UFC history
Melk Costa promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Melk debuted in the UFC in 2023, accepting a last-minute fight against Thiago Moisés in the lightweight division, but ended up losing. He then returned to featherweight, secured his first victory in the organization against Austin Lingo, and after suffering another defeat against Steve Garcia , strung together a streak of six consecutive wins.
During the streak, the Brazilian defeated Christian Rodriguez , Morgan Charriere , and Dan Ige , among other opponents, demonstrating versatility by securing two victories via submission, two by judges' decision, and two by knockout. This performance solidified his position as one of the fastest-rising Brazilian fighters in the UFC and guaranteed his entry into the featherweight rankings.
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Read More about: martial arts, Conor McGregor, Max Holloway, Melk Abbey, Melk Costa, MMA, UFC
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